Slovakia: Nationwide protests planned September 20

Event

Supporters of Ján Kuciak, an investigative journalist killed in 2018, have called for nationwide protests on Friday, September 20, to demand a complete investigation into his murder.

• In the capital Bratislava, protesters are expected to gather at Freedom square at 18:00 (local time).
• In Banská Bystrica and Banská Štiavnica the demonstrations are set to start at 18:00 at the SNP square.
• In Bardejov, participants will meet at Radničné námestie, also at 18:00.
• In Bánovce nad Bebravou, the demonstration will begin at 17:00, although the exact location was not immediately available.
• In Čadca, protesters will gather at Matičné at 18:00.
• In Košice, the protest will start at 18:00 at Dolná Brána.
• In Levice, participants will meet at Námestie Hrdinov at 18:00.
• Protesters in Prešov are set to gather at 18:00 at the City Hall.
• In Prievidza, the protest will start at 18:00 at the Slobody square.
• Participants in Žilina are set to meet at 18:30 at the Andreja Hlinku square.
• In Brno, protesters will gather at Komenshéko square at 17:00. 

A heightened security presence along with localized traffic disruptions are anticipated around all demonstrations.

Context

Kuciak, an investigative journalist, and his fiancée, Martiny Kušnírovej, were shot and killed on February 25, 2018, as Kuciak investigated alleged political corruption linked to Italian organized crime in the country. Ten of thousands staged demonstrations nationwide in February and March 2018, eventually leading to the resignation of Prime Minister Robert Fico.

Advice

Individuals in Slovakia are advised to monitor the situation and avoid public demonstrations as a precaution.