LF UK Strongly Criticises Government Proxy Kotlar's Statements as Dangerous

Bratislava, August 28 (TASR) – The Medical Faculty of Comenius University (LF UK) in Bratislava has strongly criticised Government Proxy for Investigating the COVID-19 Pandemic Management Peter Kotlar on Thursday for his statements questioning the scientific authorities, and in particularly his dismissal of the Slovak Academy of Sciences' (SAV) analysis of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines as irrelevant. According to the faculty, such claims fundamentally undermine public trust in the country's top scientific institution and create a breeding ground for spreading disinformation. "These statements are extremely dangerous. They erode expert authority, relativise scientific knowledge and jeopardise public confidence in evidence-based medicine," said faculty spokesperson Lenka Stejskalova. The faculty emphasised that public trust in science and medicine is crucial for protecting public health. "Remarks like these weaken the public's willingness to observe expert recommendations, take preventive action and use proven protective tools such as vaccines. This may lead to worsening health indicators, a reduced level of preparedness for future crises, and deepening social divisions," the statement reads. LF UK, which has been training doctors for over a century, reaffirmed its commitment to evidence-based medicine as the foundation of modern, high-quality health care. "The government proxy's conduct directly contradicts these principles and threatens public confidence in scientific institutions, health-care professions and the health-care system itself. We teach our medical students with the goal of encouraging them to live and work in Slovakia," said the faculty. The statement warned that political and institutional support for figures like Kotlar only strengthen the legitimacy of the brain drain of talented young professionals to more developed countries. "We urge a responsible and fact-based approach to public communication — one that respects evidence, expert arguments and scientific integrity. Only then can Slovakia effectively prepare for future public health challenges and restore trust in science and medicine," it stated in conclusion. Kotlar, who this week ruled out stepping down, has dismissed the findings of SAV's analysis of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, claiming that the institution is not a certified laboratory. He said that he's awaiting the outcome of an official criminal investigation. Prime Minister Robert Fico (Smer-SD) expressed full support for Kotlar on Wednesday (August 27), calling him an honorable man and a vocal champion of "common sense". "I won't allow any pressure for his resignation," said Fico, rejecting suggestions that his trust in Kotlar equates to undermining SAV's credibility. Last Thursday (August 21), the Slovak Academy of Sciences announced that its analysis showed mRNA vaccines contain only trace amounts of DNA, far below approved safety limits. It added that the risks raised by Kotlar weren't confirmed, and that claims about high DNA levels were based on flawed methods or misinterpreted data, calling such assertions misleading and incorrect. Kotlar declined to comment for TASR, saying he wants the matter to be resolved by the courts. mf/df