Slovakia’s President has appointed Samuel Migaľ as the new Minister of Investments and Regional Development, completing a crucial government reshuffle aimed at maintaining stability within the ruling coalition. The appointment comes after a deal among the three main coalition parties, ensuring the strengthening of Prime Minister Robert Fico’s Smer (Direction) party’s influence.

This reshuffle was triggered by a coalition crisis that had jeopardized the government’s parliamentary majority. With Migaľ’s appointment, the government hopes to restore balance, prevent political fragmentation, and safeguard the coalition’s long-term success.

Coalition Agreement Shakes Up Ministry Control

In a bid to reinforce its position, Smer secured additional ministries through a compromise with its coalition partners, the Hlas (Voice) party and the Slovak National Party (SNS). As part of the deal, both Hlas and SNS agreed to cede one ministry each to Smer, increasing its share to nine ministries. Meanwhile, Hlas now controls six ministries, and SNS retains two.

This agreement follows internal tensions within the coalition, which had once held a combined total of 79 seats in the 150-seat National Council. The coalition’s majority was severely weakened when four lawmakers defected, threatening the government’s ability to pass legislation. These defectors, however, did not join the opposition but demanded governmental positions to maintain their support.

Fico’s Growing Influence Amidst Controversy

Robert Fico’s growing influence in the government has fueled concerns among some political analysts and citizens. Although the reshuffle has provided greater control to his Smer party, it also intensified public opposition to his leadership, especially in regard to his foreign policies. His decision to cut military and financial aid to Ukraine, along with his blocking of its NATO membership, has been met with widespread disapproval across Slovakia.

Fico’s policies have sparked protests, with many Slovaks expressing fears that his pro-Russia stance could jeopardize the nation’s future. Despite these tensions, Fico remains a dominant figure in Slovak politics, with his control over the coalition set to shape the country’s direction in the coming months.

Key Changes in Government Leadership

The reshuffle also saw the appointment of Radomír Šalitroš, a defector from Hlas, as state secretary under Migaľ. Meanwhile, Rudolf Huliak, also a new addition to the government, has assumed the role of Minister of Tourism and Sports. These appointments signal further shifts within the coalition, as Fico continues to consolidate power.

Migaľ’s predecessor, Richard Raši, resigned from his post to assume the role of Parliamentary Speaker after Peter Pellegrini stepped down following his victory in the presidential election. This reshuffling has allowed Fico to maintain key positions of influence within Slovakia’s government.

Slovakia Faces Challenges Amid Political Shifts

While the reshuffle has strengthened Fico’s hand, Slovakia remains politically divided. The government will now focus on navigating growing internal opposition while attempting to stabilize the ruling coalition. Slovakia’s future direction will depend heavily on how the coalition balances internal power struggles, public dissatisfaction, and external diplomatic pressures.