Slovak psychiatrists and psychologists demand PM Fico's resignation
More than a hundred Slovak experts in psychology and psychiatry have sent an open letter to Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, drawing attention to his behaviour and demanding his resignation.
As reported by Aktuality, a Slovak news outlet, two leading figures in psychiatry and psychology, Jozef Hašto and Anton Heretik, are the authors of the letter. In addition to them, the letter was signed by experts from all over Slovakia.
They stated that Fico's behaviour is increasingly characterised by "a strong authoritarian style, manipulation of facts, lies, slander and attacks on political opponents, journalists and ordinary citizens".
"You do not shy away from attacking the families of opposition leaders, as was the case with the family of [opposition leader Michal] Szymeček," the letter says.
The letter also points out that Fico's foreign policy initiatives contradict the policies of the European Union and NATO, of which Slovakia is still a member. It criticises his negative attitude towards Ukraine and the Ukrainian president as well as Fico’s friendly relations with Russia.
"We hope for your ability to introspect and the possibility of correcting your political behaviour, including consideration of leaving big politics," the letter states.
A similar letter was published by the Slovak Chamber of Psychologists. In it, they warn of rising social tensions and bad moods in Slovakia. They add that the tense relations between politicians are being transmitted to citizens.
In the letter, the Chamber of Psychologists calls on politicians to "realise their responsibility and refrain from making statements that could incite violence". They want politicians to set an example for society and encourage respect and tolerance.
Robert Fico responded to the criticism on social media. He called psychiatrists and psychologists long-time opponents of the current government and accused them of abusing their profession for political purposes. He claimed that they rejected the basic principle of democracy and did not respect the election results.
The day before, on 19 January, Fico accused the opposition of sycophancy towards Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.