Slovakia’s Fico Warns of Snap Vote as Coalition Majority at Risk

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico said elections may be held as soon as January, as infighting between members of his ruling coalition threaten to cost him a majority in parliament.

The coalition crisis erupted after a junior partner demanded the ouster of the nation’s environment minister, Tomas Taraba, over his growing political autonomy and amid a battle for control over ministry tenders and influence.

Such a reshuffle, however, would also trigger changes among lawmakers, and the incoming deputies may not be loyal to Fico’s coalition — potentially leaving it with just 75 votes in the 150-seat parliament, one short of a majority.

“If Mr. Danko and Mr. Taraba don’t come to their senses, there may be early elections in January,” Fico said in a televised debate on Sunday, addressing members of his own coalition.

None of the coalition parties has so far openly called for an early ballot. Fico’s warning is meant to pressure his partners into settling their disputes without putting the parliamentary majority at risk.

Fico, a four-time prime minister, said the current coalition is the most complicated lineup he’s ever led. “If you want to break it up, then break it up. I’m, unlike others, ready for January,” he said.

Regular parliamentary elections in the Central European nation are scheduled for September 2027.