IPI is concerned at statements directed against the Slovak media by Ivan Lexa, head of Slovakia’s intelligence service (SIS). In a 22 May 1996 report to Parliament, Lexa dismissed the findings of a committee headed by Ladislav Pittner, a member of the Christian Democratic Movement. The findings accused Lexa, the SIS and Interior Minister Ludovit […]
IPI is concerned at statements directed against the Slovak media
by Ivan Lexa, head of Slovakia’s intelligence service (SIS). In a
22 May 1996 report to Parliament, Lexa dismissed the findings of a
committee headed by Ladislav Pittner, a member of the Christian
Democratic Movement. The findings accused Lexa, the SIS and
Interior Minister Ludovit Hudek of complicity in last August’s
kidnapping of President Michal Kovac’s son. Lexa accused the
committee of working together with certain media (including Radio
Free Europe, the daily “Sme”, the private radio station Twist
Radio and the Czech station Nova) to create an anti-Slovak
atmosphere. He is further reported to have said that journalists
who publish “state secrets” or spread “lies” can no longer expect
any leniency.
Recommended Action
Send appeals to Slovak authorities:
at the increasingly hostile climate for journalists in Slovakia
journalists in Slovakia are allowed to exercise their profession
without fear of political harassment
Appeals To
His Excellency Prime Minister Vladimir Meciar
Office of the Government of the Slovak Republic
Bratislava, Slovakia
Fax: +427 5315 487
Please copy appeals to the originator if possible.
