Good evening. Here is the Friday, April 26 edition of Today in Slovakia - the main news of the day in less than five minutes.
A London court orders extremist YouTuber Daniel Bombic back to Slovakia
Daniel Bombic (l), Tibor Gašpar (c) and Jana Laššáková (r). (source: YouTube)
A London court has ordered the extradition of right-wing extremist Daniel Bombic to Slovakia. Journalist Martin Hodás first reported the news on the disinformation-analysis Facebook page "Na druhom brehu."
Bombic, who blogs and broadcasts online under the pseudonym "Danny Kollár", faces charges of extremism, dangerous stalking, defamation, and dangerous electronic harassment. He has avoided prosecution in Slovakia by staying in London. Three international arrest warrants were issued against him. The court's decision is not yet final; Bombic can still appeal.
He is a prominent figure in the disinformation scene, hosting figures from the now-ruling Smer party on his online broadcasts, including Robert Fico, Robert Kaliňák, and former police president, now Smer MP, Tibor Gašpar; the current interior minister, Matúš Šutaj Eštok (Hlas), who is responsible for the police force, has also appeared alongside Bombic. The blogger actively supported Peter Pellegrini's candidacy before the recent presidential election and, following Pellegrini's victory, celebrated on social media.
Three weeks ago, the Sme daily published photos and videos of Bombic repeatedly giving Nazi salutes, singing neo-Nazi songs, and associating with prominent Slovak neo-Nazis from groups like Juden Mord and Krátky Proces. His background was previously scrutinised by the investigative journalism site Bellingcat.
MORE STORIES FROM THE SLOVAK SPECTATOR WEBSITE
Politics: SNS leaderAndrej Danko spent two hours sweeping the streets of Dúbravka today; he characterised it as community service in partial recompense for his January car crash in the Bratislava borough.
Travel: The UNESCO World Heritage site of Vlkolínec is trying to resolve confusion over competing entrance fees.
Business:Garages sell immediately, few make it to real estate websites.
Good news: In this week's collection of feel-good stories find out about a talented Slovak photographer who has won recognition abroad, see his stunning image, and read other heartwarming stories.
Weekend: Orava Castle, where the 1920s horror classic Nosferatu was filmed, is now open for the summer season. If you haven't visited yet, now's your chance! For more tips, recipes, and fascinating stories read more here.
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FEATURE STORY FOR THE WEEKEND
Volkswagen Slovakia gears up for production of its first full-electric SUV
Volkswagen Slovakia. (source: SME - Marko Erd)
Volkswagen Slovakia is preparing to produce its inaugural full-electric SUV. It's offering above-average wages to attract new workers, and has posted record turnover and increased car production amidst global challenges.
10 EVENTS FOR THE WEEKEND
Run Through the Forests of Devín
(source: bkis)
Is running your hobby? Then the Run Through the Forests of Devín is definitely for you. More details about this event and others can be found in our selection of 10 events for foreigners.
IN OTHER NEWS
Opposition party Progresívne Slovensko (PS) announced a protest against what it call the government's authoritarian actions, particularly focusing on the dismantling of RTVS and pension fund policies. The protest, led by PS chair Michal Šimečka, will take place on May 2 at 18:00 in Bratislava's Námestie Slobody.
MPs discussed a proposed amendment to the education law, which seeks to require parental consent for sex education. Richard Vašečka (Kresťanská Únia) emphasised parents' right to be informed and consent to their children's sex education, while Lucia Plaváková (PS) opposed the proposal, citing concerns over children's rights. (TASR)
Amnesty International is calling on the Slovak government to respect the rule of law and human rights amid concerns over proposed laws impacting RTVS, NGOs and transgender rights. It criticises legislation that it says will increase political control over the public broadcaster and stigmatise NGOs, and urges rejection of the proposals and depoliticisation of the selection of leadership of public agencies. (TASR)
The oldest national park in Slovakia will celebrate its 75th anniversary this year. The Tatra National Park Administration (TANAP) will hold an open day for visitors
Drivers are advised that maintenance work will be conducted on the left lane of the D1 highway towards Bratislava from 20:00 on April 28, 2024, until 14:00 on April 29, 2024. Two lanes will remain open for traffic during this time. Please drive cautiously and follow police instructions. (source: FB Polícia SR - Bratislavský kraj)
WEATHER FOR THE WEEKEND
Saturday is expected to bring partly cloudy skies, with sporadic showers possible in some areas, and even snow in mountains areas. On Sunday, the weather will be mainly fine. Temperatures over the weekend will be mild, ranging from 15°C to 21°C. (SHMÚ)
NAME DAYS IN SLOVAKIA: Saturday - Jaroslav, Sunday - Jarmila, Monday - Lea
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