New direction for the opposition?

Since the collapse of the Radičová government in 2012, divisions among the centre-right continue to deepen. Observers look to newly-introduced parties for the potential to bring about change.

Richard RybníčekRichard Rybníček (Source: Sme)

The shape of the centre-right has been declining in the past few years and observers have long been pondering the question whether the opposition could improve its condition and be competitive, particularly to Smer. Political analysts now seem to agree that the time is ripe for a new party.

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The opposition in Slovakia has been severely split ever since the centre-right government of Iveta Radičová fell and was replaced by a one-party government of Smer in 2012. The most promising newcomer to the political scene before the 2016 election, Sieť, teamed up with Smer and has practically fallen apart.

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Observers now believe a new subject is necessary that would unite the support of centre-right voters who have been disappointed with the politicians they voted for over the past few years. Some new parties have appeared recently, but it is questionable whether they will be able to fill the void.

Political analyst Pavol Baboš from Comenius University’s school of political science points out that centre-right voters expect from their parties more than the slogan ‘When stealing stops, Slovakia can progress’.

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