- Rudolf Huliak appointed Tourism Minister in coalition power transfer
- Smer party gains 3 ministries, securing 9 of 17 government portfolios
- Government majority drops to 72 seats amid factional disputes
Slovakia's political landscape faces unprecedented turbulence as President Pellegrini finalizes a strategic cabinet reshuffle. The appointment of Rudolf Huliak marks Smer's third ministry acquisition through coalition negotiations, strengthening Prime Minister Fico's control over key economic and cultural sectors. This power consolidation comes amid dwindling parliamentary support, with the coalition's original 79-seat majority reduced to 72 following internal factionalization.
The restructuring reveals deepening fractures within Slovakia's governing alliance. Hlas party surrendered tourism oversight while Slovak National Party relinquished regional development control - critical concessions enabling Smer to command 53% of ministerial positions. Analysts suggest this realignment mirrors broader Central European trends where coalition governments increasingly centralize power to maintain legislative functionality.
Huliak's controversial appointment raises international eyebrows given his history of climate change denial and anti-EU rhetoric. The new minister previously advocated violence against environmental activists and opposed LGBTQ+ rights during his tenure as mayor of Očová. European Parliament members warn this signals Slovakia's concerning political trajectory, particularly following Fico's recent suspension of military aid to Ukraine.
Regional comparisons highlight Slovakia's unique challenges. Unlike Poland's 2023 coalition crisis resolved through early elections, Slovak law mandates fixed parliamentary terms until 2027. This constitutional framework pressures unstable coalitions to prioritize internal negotiations over public mandates. A recent Bratislava University study shows 68% of similar EU government reshuffles since 2020 resulted in reduced policy transparency.
The tourism ministry transfer carries economic implications for Slovakia's €4.3B travel industry. Huliak inherits oversight of 12 UNESCO sites and winter sports infrastructure contributing 3.2% to national GDP. Industry leaders express concern over potential redirection of EU cultural preservation funds given the minister's history of opposing Brussels-led initiatives.
As street protests enter their seventh week in Bratislava, all eyes remain on Fico's next move regarding the vacant Regional Development Ministry. With the government's survival now dependent on appeasing independent lawmakers through state appointments, experts predict further erosion of Slovakia's democratic institutions in exchange for short-term political stability.
