Michelko: Peter K.'s Charges Intimidation, He Bases His Claims on Authorities

Bratislava, 3 February (TASR) - The accusation against Government Proxy for Investigation into COVID-19 Pandemic Management Peter K. [name abbreviated due to legal reasons] is intimidation, stated chairman of the Slovak National Party (SNS) parliamentary caucus Roman Michelko following the proxy's press conference on Tuesday, adding that he also bases his claims on medical authorities. "I'm also amazed that an investigator was found who accepted this. Peter K. based his claims on certain sources, citing authorities, including medical authorities. He simply expressed an opinion, and this is a clear case of the criminalisation of opinions, which is really not in order. I, of course, believe that he'll stand his ground defending himself, but it's sickening that he has to deal with this at all," said Michelko. The SNS caucus head defended Peter K. by saying that he draws on several sources and experts. "Dr. Pekova, who had many opinions, but as an expert is difficult to question ... and many others who basically have a different opinion or raise questions," stated Michelko, pointing out that Peter K. was appointed to the post by Premier Robert Fico (Smer-SD). "If the prime minister was dissatisfied with the situation, he would at least instruct him to focus on something else. He [Peter K.] has found his niche, and the person who appointed him is satisfied with that," he added. Peter K. reported at a press conference earlier on Tuesday that he'll file a complaint against the charges pressed against him, which he views as indisputably politically motivated. The proxy also asked Premier Robert Fico for the chance to present serious evidence that he claims has been kept hidden for a long time during Wednesday's (4 February) government session. He wants to present it to the public on Thursday (5 February). Tomas Szalay, who, together with other party colleagues, filed a criminal complaint against the proxy last year, reported that Peter K. (name abbreviated due to legal reasons) had been charged with the criminal offence of spreading false alarms. am/df