Monitor: Sutaj Estok: If Ministry's Campaign Saves Even One Life, It's Worth It

(JOJ 24,'Politika 24', 21 June) The Interior Ministry's campaign 'Na vlastnej kozi' (First-Hand Experience), which focuses on drugs, cyberbullying and animal cruelty, makes sense if it saves even a single child from drug addiction, Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok (Voice-SD) said on JOJ 24's discussion programme 'Politika 24' (Politics 24) on Sunday when asked about how he views the fact that police have begun investigating the campaign. "I regret that the only thing the media is picking up on is the unofficial part, which features a singer intended to attract attention and draw people to the event," said Sutaj Estok. Asked how he views criticism from experts, including teachers and other professionals working with children, he replied that the project had also been prepared in cooperation with the Education Ministry. The discussion also touched upon Sutaj Estok's appeal in a lawsuit filed by the so-called 'Curillovci' group [police officers who were investigating high-profile corruption cases and have faced suspension and criminal charges since 2023 - ed.note]. The minister welcomed the Bratislava Regional Court's ruling which upheld his appeal and overturned a default judgment under which he was required to pay damages and apologise, adding that he stands by his previous statements about the 'Curillovci' group and is looking forward to the court hearing. As regards next year's state budget, Sutaj Estok stressed that Voice-SD's position is clear: social benefits, including the 13th pension payment, should not be cut. He declined to say whether Voice-SD will refuse to support the budget if its demand for a substantial increase in police officers' salaries isn't met. However, he's convinced that a compromise will be reached. When discussing the 2027 parliamentary election and this year's municipal election, Sutaj Estok said Voice-SD has no plans to replace him as party leader. "I am prepared to lead Voice-SD in the next parliamentary elections," he stressed, noting that the party is still holding talks with Interior Ministry State Secretary Michal Kalinak about whether he will run for governor of the Presov self-governing region. jrg