“There is no doubt that it was a politically motivated attack,” Estok told a press conference. “We are on the threshold of a civil war - please, let’s stop spreading the hate.”
The minister promised that Slovakian law enforcement would increase security to protect government officials, opposition politicians and members of the media. Continuing, he added that those guilty of hate speech would be tracked down.
“I inform you that the authorities will act and no praise of this attack will go unpunished,” he warned. “I say to all citizens - the answer to hatred cannot be hatred.”
His words, however, were laced with anger. Rounding on the media, he blamed Slovakia’s journalists for stirring political discontent. “You - journalists - are the ones who spread this hatred. Now you must use your opportunities to calm the situation in the country.”
His outburst came shortly after the Minister of Defense Robert Kaliniak addressed the press and spoke of the day’s events. “Slovakia has never faced such a situation before,” said Kaliniak. “What happened is a wound that will weigh on us for years to come.”
Answering questions, the Minister of Defense denied that the government had ever abused its power or resorted to hate speech.
During the press conference, the minister added that although surgeons were still battling to save Fico’s life, he remained confident that the Prime Minister would pull through.