Slovenia's parliament confirmed Janez Jansa, a right-wing populist politician, as the new prime minister in a 51-36 vote on Friday. This marks a significant shift from the country's previous liberal government and concludes a postelection stalemate that began after March elections resulted in a near tie between political parties.
Key Takeaways
Slovenia's parliament confirmed right-wing populist Janez Jansa as prime minister in a 51-36 vote, marking a shift from liberal rule. The appointment follows a postelection stalemate after March elections resulted in a near tie between Jansa's Slovenian Democratic Party and the Freedom Movement led by former Prime Minister Robert Golob.
- Slovenia appoints Janez Jansa as prime minister with 51 votes in parliament
- Jansa forms coalition government with center-right parties and right-wing Resnica party backing
- New government promises tax relief, pro-business reforms, and pension funding changes
- Jansa faces criticism for past actions against democratic institutions and press freedoms
The appointment comes two months after parliamentary elections produced no clear majority, with former Prime Minister Robert Golob's Freedom Movement winning by a thin margin but failing to secure enough support in parliament. Jansa's Slovenian Democratic Party signed a coalition agreement this week with several center-right groups and received backing from the right-wing Resnica party.
The new government has outlined key priorities including tax relief for businesses and households, support for startups, cutting red tape, fighting corruption, and shifting power to local governments. Jansa listed these goals in a speech following his confirmation, promising to lower taxes for the rich and support private education and healthcare. He also pledged to make Slovenia 'a country of opportunity, prosperity and justice.'
The appointment has drawn criticism from Golob, who described Jansa as 'the greatest threat to Slovenia's sovereignty and democracy,' citing past actions against democratic institutions and press freedoms during Jansa's previous term in office. The vote was also marred by allegations of foreign influence and corruption.
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