Slovakia has tightened the law on freedom of assembly, following the assassination attempt against Prime Minister Robert Fico, which occurred two months ago. This law was approved at the end of June and entered into force today.
According to this law, gatherings are not allowed within a radius of 50 meters from the headquarters of the government and the presidency, parliament and all court buildings.
Demonstrations against politicians in front of their residences are also prohibited, as well as if they endanger public order.
The law provides that the leaders of the parties represented in the parliament also have the right to personal protection. Similarly, personal protection should be ensured for the general prosecutor and the president of the Constitutional Court.
Prime Ministers who spend more than ten years in office will be entitled to a lifetime pension as well.
Critics from the opposition say that the law is a step towards a “police state”.
Fico was shot on May 15, in a town in central Slovakia, and underwent two lengthy operations.