Marek Krajci to Stay in 'Slovakia' Party and its Caucus

Bratislava, 1 October (TASR) – MP Marek Krajci will remain in the joint parliamentary caucus of 'Slovakia', For the People and Christian Union parties and also retain his 'Slovakia' party membership, TASR learnt from the lawmaker's press conference on Wednesday. Krajci expressed gratitude that both the caucus and the party’s leadership rejected his offer to leave, which he made following his vote in favour of the government-sponsored constitutional amendment. „With respect and gratitude, I accepted the decision of the parliamentary caucus and the leadership of the 'Slovakia' party — the extended hand of forgiveness and a new beginning. I accept that hand. I believe that time and a kind approach can heal many things," declared Krajci. However, he expressed regret over the departure of Rastislav Kratky, who, like Krajci, had supported the amendment. „On the other hand, I respect the decision of the party’s bodies and the parliamentary caucus," he said, adding that Kratky had taken a different approach to dealing with the situation after the vote. „If it were up to me, I would want him to be granted mercy as well," Krajci stated. On Tuesday (30 September), Krajci had announced his intention to leave both the caucus and the 'Slovakia' party following his vote the previous week in favour of the constitutional amendment, despite both him and Kratky having earlier declared they would oppose it. In response, 'Slovakia' leader Igor Matovic said he did not want Krajci’s resignation to be accepted, arguing that Krajci had admitted his mistake and taken responsibility. Matovic, however, announced the expulsion of Kratky, stating that Kratky had shown no sense of responsibility, no attempt to apologise, and no self-reflection. mf/mcs