UNSUCCESSFUL presidential candidate and independent MP Radoslav Procházka presented his new party, called Sieť (The Network), in Prešov on April 25.
Procházka explained the meaning of the new party’s name: "A network as a community of determined and skilled people from all corners of Slovakia who want to support these regions by their active involvement and by paying attention to their needs. The network should be a solid community," said Procházka, as quoted by TASR.
The name Network also reflects the internal structure of the new party, which will be based in 28 local headquarters, located in the 12 largest towns, plus 16 natural Slovak regions.
“The name is also a metaphor for our understanding of the state, which shouldn't be a suffocating heavy cloth that prevents one from moving, but should instead be a network of help and protection for those who have been caught in need," said Procházka.
Procházka declined to say whether his party will be a typical right-wing party, saying he does not know who represents a traditional rightist party in Slovakia nowadays.
"We promote a simple and functioning state that doesn't tell its people how they should live. It shouldn't suffocate and bully them; it should provide them with enough scope instead. You may define it however you want, but we're a centre-right [party]," said Procházka, as quoted by TASR.
The new party is designed to be a counterweight to the governing Smer, stated Procházka.
Procházka and his people launched the petition for the party to be registered (under Slovak law, 10,000 signatures are needed).
The Network will vie for votes for the first time in the autumn local elections, the new party’s leader added.
Source: TASR
Compiled by Michaela Terenzani from press reports.
The Slovak Spectator cannot vouch for the accuracy of the information
presented in its Flash News postings.
