Slovak prime Minister Accuses Georgian National of Coup Plot,sparks constitutional Concerns
Bratislava,Slovakia – Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico‘s claims of a coup attempt orchestrated by Mamuka Mamulašvili,head of the Georgian Legion,are fueling political tensions and raising questions about the use of state security services. The allegations, made in late January following a Security Council meeting, have been met with accusations of misinformation and abuse of power by the opposition.
Here’s what we know:
Coup Allegations: Prime minister Fico stated a “structure” was attempting to exploit public gatherings to escalate tensions and potentially overthrow the government. He specifically accused Mamulašvili of organizing the alleged coup.
SIS Involvement: rastislav Krátka, a member of Parliament, alleges the Slovak Details Service (SIS) was improperly used to suppress information regarding the reasons for potential government dismissal.He suggests the opposition is being denied its constitutional right to question cabinet members.Krátka proposes a constitutional complaint, arguing institutions are failing and being abused by Fico.
Ministerial Response: Minister Susko confirmed the SIS had information in January regarding activities potentially endangering the constitutional order of Slovakia. He stated this information substantiated Fico’s claims about a coup attempt, asserting the Prime Minister “did not lie.” Susko also indicated Mamulašvili’s presence in Slovakia will be investigated.
Ministry of Interior Statement: The Ministry of the Interior (MV) acknowledged “defects” exist within Slovak territory but defended the police’s operational effectiveness. Spokesman Matej Neumann stated detailed information regarding the alleged coup planning cannot be released at this stage, but offered to provide a non-public briefing to MPs on the Defense Committee through the Police President.
Opposition Rebuttal: Opposition parties have denounced Fico’s claims as false, characterizing them as a fabrication intended to distract from domestic issues. They also accuse him of misusing the SIS. Mamulašvili’s Visit: Minister susko claims he was unaware of Mamulašvili’s visit to Bratislava.
Context: The Georgian Legion and Regional Security
The Georgian Legion is a volunteer unit comprised of Georgian citizens fighting alongside Ukraine against the Russian invasion. Mamuka Mamulašvili has been a prominent figure within the Legion, and has been vocal in his support for Ukraine and criticism of Russian influence in the region.
The allegations against Mamulašvili are particularly sensitive given the ongoing geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe and the potential for external actors to destabilize neighboring countries. Slovakia, bordering Ukraine, has been a key transit point for aid and a focus of international attention regarding its stance on the conflict.
Looking Ahead:
The situation remains fluid. The investigation into mamulašvili’s activities and the broader allegations of a coup attempt are likely to dominate Slovak politics in the coming weeks. The potential constitutional complaint filed by Krátka could lead to a legal challenge to the Prime Minister’s actions and the role of the SIS. The outcome will likely have important implications for the stability of the Slovak government and its relationship with both Ukraine and its european partners.
Key Details:
Prime Minister: Robert Fico (Smer-SD)
Accused: Mamuka Mamulašvili, head of the Georgian Legion
Allegation: Attempted coup d’état
Agency Involved: Slovak Information Service (SIS)
Parliamentary Representative: Rastislav Krátka
Minister: Susko (Ministry not specified in the article)
* Ministry Spokesman: Matej Neumann (Ministry of the Interior)