Robert Fico: the return of a controversial politician to Slovakia
The parliamentary elections in Slovakia could mark the comeback of Robert Fico, a controversial and populist political figure. Despite the scandals that have tarnished his career, polls place him in the lead, ready to resume his post as Prime Minister.
Robert Fico, aged 59, has already served twice as Prime Minister of Slovakia. However, in 2018 he was forced to resign after the assassination of investigative journalist Jan Kuciak and his fiancée. Kuciak’s revelations about the links between the mafia and Fico’s political party provoked large popular demonstrations demanding his resignation.
Although the investigation led to the indictment of a businessman for the murder, Robert Fico was never fully held accountable. Following the 2020 elections, an anti-corruption coalition came to power but Fico managed to retain his seat in Parliament.
Since then, Fico has developed a communication strategy based on social networks. He uses videos posted on Facebook, YouTube and Telegram to speak directly to his supporters and spread misleading information. A survey revealed that more than half of the Slovak population is receptive to these fake news, believing in conspiracy theories and the idea of a totalitarian world order.
Fico’s campaign is based on promises of stability, order and prosperity. He takes a strong stance against migrants and the rights of LGBT+ people. His virulent attacks against the LGBT+ community and his statements against same-sex marriage show a desire to strengthen his conservative base.
Outside of politics, Fico is known for his love of big cars, football and bodybuilding. He openly admires the authoritarianism of Vladimir Putin and even refuses to authorize a possible arrest of the Russian president in Slovakia.
Despite his controversial past and polarizing positions, Robert Fico appears close to returning to power in Slovakia. The question now is whether the Slovak population is ready to give a second chance to a politician who has been tarnished by corruption and disinformation scandals. The results of the parliamentary elections will tell whether Fico will be able to convince a majority of voters or whether Slovakia will choose a different path for its political future.