Slovak MP Calls Government ‘Acid Dealers’ – Speaker Outraged

Bratislava – A heated exchange erupted during a session of the Slovak National Council on February 12th, as a member of the opposition used strong language to describe the current governing coalition. The incident, which occurred during the 46th session of the council, led to a suspension of proceedings and a sharp rebuke from the presiding officer.

Parliamentary Dispute Erupts Over Allegations

The conflict began after a contribution from Progressive Slovakia (PS) MP Štefan Kišš. Zuzana Mesterová, also of PS, then stated, “Táto vládna koalícia sú kyselinári,” – “This governing coalition are acid burners.” She further clarified, stating they were “dissolving taxpayers’ money in the acid of corruption.”

Andrej Danko, presiding over the session and leader of the Slovak National Party (SNS), immediately challenged the statement. He interrupted Mesterová, stating, “Prosím vás, vy viete, kto sú kyselinári, tak inak vyberajte slová,” – “Please, you know who the acid burners are, so choose your words differently.” Mesterová responded, asserting that Danko’s discomfort stemmed from his own alleged involvement, saying, “Ja tomu rozumiem, pán Danko, ale tak to proste je,” – “I understand that, Mr. Danko, but that’s just how it is.”

Did You Know? The incident occurred during the 46th session of the Slovak National Council on February 12th.

Danko Demands Retraction, Suspends Session

Danko forcefully objected to Mesterová’s characterization, declaring, “Ja si od vás vyprosím … Pozastavujem vaše vystúpenie. Si od vás vyprosím, aby ste vy mňa označovala ako kyselinára v tejto sále alebo túto vládu! Čo si to dovoľujete?! Čo si to dovoľujete?!” – “I ask you to stop… I suspend your speech. I ask you to stop calling me or this government ‘acid burners’ in this hall! What do you allow yourself?! What do you allow yourself?!”

During Danko’s outburst, Jozef Pročko of the Hnutie Slovensko (Slovak Movement) also attempted to speak, but was quickly silenced by Danko with the command, “Ty buď tiež ticho!” – “You be quiet too!”

Following a further contribution from PS MP Darina Luščíková, who supported Mesterová’s statement, Danko questioned whether the opposition was equating the coalition to “murderers.” Pročko responded that Mesterová’s statement was a “comparison.” Danko then announced he would suspend the session, stating, “Vy viete, kto sú kyselinári. Ja som sa včera ospravedlňoval za úplnu hlúposť vám,” – “You know who the acid burners are. I apologized to you yesterday for complete foolishness.”

Expert Insight: The use of highly charged language in parliamentary debate, such as the comparison to “acid burners,” reflects a deeply polarized political climate. Such rhetoric, while intended to be impactful, carries the risk of escalating tensions and hindering constructive dialogue.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted the disruption in the National Council?

The disruption was prompted by a statement from Zuzana Mesterová of Progressive Slovakia, who referred to the governing coalition as “acid burners,” alleging they were misusing public funds.

How did Andrej Danko respond to the statement?

Andrej Danko, presiding over the session, strongly objected to the term, demanded a retraction from Mesterová, and temporarily suspended the session.

Did anyone else become involved in the exchange?

Jozef Pročko of Hnutie Slovensko attempted to interject during Danko’s rebuke, but was also silenced by Danko. Darina Luščíková of Progressive Slovakia also voiced support for Mesterová’s statement.

What impact will this level of acrimony have on future parliamentary proceedings?