Matovic Criticises Simecka for Lack of Opposition Unity

Bratislava, 17 October (TASR) – The 'Slovakia' party has blasted opposition leader and Progressive Slovakia (PS) chair Michal Simecka for failing to present any offer of cooperation or unified plan over the past two years, also condemning him for excluding 'Slovakia' from potential future cooperation, despite polls indicating that he couldn't form a government without it, 'Slovakia' party chair Igor Matovic stated at a press conference on Friday. Matovic also announced the launch of a new website, Prevrat2027.sk (Revolution2027.sk), where the people will be able to vote monthly on specific policy measures. These proposals are intended to shape legislative changes in a future government. Matovic expressed concern that PS might seek to govern alongside Voice-SD. "If he were responsible, there would already be a shadow government and a joint opposition plan to defeat the mafia," said Matovic of Simecka. He stressed that the 'Slovakia' party aims to reach out to all voters. Each month, the party plans to publish new solutions on the website and seek public input. It will ask people what issues matter most to them leading up to the next parliamentary elections. If Simecka doesn't support these solutions, the 'Slovakia' party will refuse to enter a coalition with him. "We want to see a responsible approach from Simecka, not that of an arrogant elite," said Matovic. He added that if reforms aren't enacted within six months of forming a new government, his party will withdraw from or stop supporting that government. By election time, the party plans to present 25 proposed solutions. Matovic criticised Simecka again for not engaging in cooperation or forming a shadow cabinet. "You’re not interested in us, we’re not interested in you. See you after the elections. We're willing to help, but the people will decide the price," he said. He acknowledged Simecka’s leadership role, but questioned his lack of a plan after two years of Robert Fico's (Smer-SD) scandal-ridden government. Referring to the combined polling figures for Freedom and Solidarity, Progressive Slovakia, the Christian Democratic Movement, and Democrats — averaging around 40 percent together — Matovic said that he expected more mature stances under such circumstances. In addition, he criticised Simecka for stating after a vote on a government-sponsored constitutional amendment that he wants no ties with the 'Slovakia' party, questioning whether such a stance is responsible. Matovic warned that a post-election coalition led by Simecka could include Voice-SD, and urged Simecka to clearly rule out such a partnership. On Friday, the 'Slovakia' party unveiled its first three proposals for public feedback: cutting politicians' salaries by 50 percent, raising monthly child benefit from 60 to 100 euros and banning health-insurance company owners from withdrawing profits if their clients wait over 30 days for surgery mf/df