Sefcovic, a respected diplomat who is also pro-EU, is backed by the ruling party Smer, the largest grouping in parliament that has dominated Slovak politics since 2006. "This started in the local election last year, was confirmed in the presidential election, and I believe the European (parliamentary election in May) will confirm it as well." 'SLOVAKIA'S ERIN BROCKOVICH'Slovakia's president wields little day-to-day power but appoints prime ministers and can veto appointments of senior prosecutors and judges. It may give a boost to opposition parties looking to replace Smer, still the most popular party, in next year's general election. A row with the president could make Fico push the country closer to eurosceptic and socially conservative leaders in neighbouring Hungary and Poland.

Source: bd News24 March 31, 2019 09:00 UTC