Sutaj Estok: Aggression against Other Views Hasn't Disappeared from Society

Bratislava, May 15 (TASR) - Aggression and hatred of other opinions, attitudes and values haven't disappeared from society even one year after the assassination attempt on Premier Robert Fico (Smer-SD), chairman of the coalition Voice-SD party and Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok stated in a video posted on a social network, appealing to people to pay attention to what they say, because even words can kill. "Big words and personal attacks brought society to the point of the prime minister being shot a year ago. Even a year later, aggression and hatred towards other opinions, attitudes or values haven't disappeared from society. They are still with us, and they could still escalate into violence, into the shooting at anyone. Let's be careful what we do, what we say, let's not set people against other people because even words can kill," he said. The Voice-SD leader accused opposition leaders especially of hate-filled vocabulary. "Even a year after the assassination attempt in Handlova [Trencin region], unfortunately, the opposition's vocabulary hasn't changed, quite the opposite. I have the feeling that the public is being lied to, misled and incited even more on the streets," stated the minister, appealing to the opposition to use more well-considered words. "I too have a different view on many things in politics, and that is perfectly legitimate. However, I always try to present that opinion with respect for the other person," he claimed. Sutaj Estok also spoke about the rise of hate speech online. He believes that words on the internet can kill and that lies and manipulation are the fastest way to repeat the Handlova incident. "And we can't allow that in any case," he stressed. He therefore announced that the ministry will prepare a law on combating hatred on the internet, which will be inspired by German legislation. Juraj C. (name abbreviated due to legal reasons) shot at and seriously wounded the premier following a government session in Handlova on May 15, 2024. He's been charged with carrying out a terrorist attack and faces life imprisonment. The trial is due to start in July. am/df