Rasi: In 1989, We Demanded Dialogue and Respect; Today, Monologues Prevail

Bratislava, 17 November (TASR) - In the autumn of 1989, we demanded dialogue, discussion and respect on the streets, but today monologues prevail, discussions have turned into arguments, and respect, especially respect for different opinions or political opponents, has been lost, stated Parliamentary Chair Richard Rasi (Voice-SD) on the occasion of the 36th anniversary of the Velvet Revolution. The House chair called for a decent and constructive debate in society and mutual respect. "I was also standing on the squares in 1989. My strongest memory is the emotion of that time: unity, togetherness, hope and humility in the face of an uncertain future. We were all there together, united by the vision of a free Slovakia. Today, we search in vain for this emotion in society. We have freedom of speech, open borders and the ability to vote freely, but social reconciliation is nowhere in sight," he posted on social media. Rasi claimed that it seems as if there is a state of permanent conflict in which warring factions drive their supporters into battle against each other on imaginary barricades almost every day. "That's why it's not enough to just remember. If we want to change the atmosphere in Slovakia, we must stop unnecessary conflicts, hatred and anger. Slovakia is our common home, and it's up to us how we, our parents, children and grandchildren will live in it," he added. am/df