SNS Calls on Pellegrini to Refrain from Attacking Fico

Bratislava, October 7 (TASR) - The Slovak National Party (SNS) has called on President Peter Pellegrini to refrain from attacking Premier Fico (Smer-SD) in connection with outgoing Health Minister Zuzana Dolinkova (Voice-SD). SNS claimed that it took note of Pellegrini's comments, noting, however, that it hopes he will behave in a non-partisan manner in the future and not as former head of Voice. According to the party, Dolinkova has not presented any reform in the health sector or filed any criminal complaint in connection with the management of the COVID-19 pandemic. With her resignation, according to SNS, she is trying to cover up her long-term incompetence and defend the interests of the health sector by attacking the prime minister. Dolinkova announced last week that she was resigning, adding that she was planning to submit her resignation to President Peter Pellegrini in a short time. Pellegrini said at the weekend that he won't accept Dolinkova's resignation until the premier presents an appropriate replacement. Moreover, he remarked that he'd expected another minister to resign, most likely referring to Culture Minister Martina Simkovicova (an SNS nominee). zel/mcs