BRATISLAVA, Slovakia (AP) — Slovakia’s government on Wednesday approved a controversial overhaul of the country’s public radio and television services, a move that critics say would result in the government taking full control of the media.
Thousands rallied in the capital last month to condemn the plan, which was widely criticized by local journalists, the opposition, international media organizations and the European Commission.
Populist Prime Minister Robert Fico said the changes are needed because the public broadcaster, known as RTVS, is politically biased and “is in conflict with the Slovak government.” The proposed changes would mean it is replaced by a new organisation.
The Parliament, where the Fico’s coalition government has a majority, is expected to approve the changes in June.
The takeover plan was drafted by Culture Minister Martina Šimkovičová, who represents the Slovak National Party, an ultra-nationalist member of the coalition government. She has worked for an internet television outlet known for spreading disinformation.
A Russian priest who held Navalny's memorial service is suspended by Moscow church
Meet The Richardsons fans fear show will be cancelled after Jon Richardson and Lucy Beaumont's nine
Scientists reveal the surest way to stop feeling angry in stressful situations
TOWIE's Chloe Meadows and Sophie Kasaei put on busty displays in form
Cyberattacks are on the rise, and that includes small businesses. Here's what to know
Fin Affleck's close friendship with JLo's child Emme Maribel Munniz, 16
Vanessa Hudgens displays her baby bump in a tight
Teen cancer survivor reveals she had no idea how ill she was until radiographer CRIED during scan
A blast near a ship off Yemen may mark a new attack by Houthi rebels after a recent lull
Aldi is offering customers FREE beauty products before they even hit shelves
Aboriginal spears taken by Captain Cook in 1770 are returned to Australia's Indigenous people
Moment police arrest teenager Brian Cohee who hid head of homeless man he murdered in closet