Slovak prime minister faces no-confidence vote

Slovak prime minister Mikulas Dzurinda is to face a vote of no confidence in a special session of parliament in Bratislava today.

Opposition politicians claim Dzurinda has failed to manage economic reforms, and other areas, which they argue has caused unnecessary pain for many Slovaks.

They also criticise Dzurinda for supporting the US-led war in Iraq and the country’s deployment of troops there. Slovakia has more than 100 soldiers in Iraq, most of whom are there for demining operations.

It appeared unlikely the opposition would gather enough support for the no-confidence vote, which would need the support of at least 76 out of 150 politicians to succeed.

Dzurinda has formed his cabinet following the 2002 general elections, his second term in office.

While in power, he has managed to improve Slovakia’s image abroad. His cabinet has introduced political and economic reforms, which earned the country membership in the European Union and Nato in 2004.

Under his leadership, Slovakia has attracted major foreign investors, including car manufacturers Peugeot, Citroen and Kia.