CZPremier Fico criticized the opposition's referendum as a failure and nonsense, claiming it was aimed directly at him personally. He emphasized that neither he nor his party engaged in any activities against the referendum, calling it 'the highest form of direct democracy' while noting that participation would have been even lower if the ruling camp had actively explained its 'nonsense.' Fico accused the opposition of using the referendum to spread hatred and politically exploiting sensitive topics related to protective measures after an attack on him. He compared the responsibility of former president Zuzana Čaputová, who still uses similar measures, to his own, calling such comparisons 'absolutely impossible.' He also warned that low turnout would be interpreted by the opposition and their allied 'anti-Slovak and anti-government media' as a victory and a warning to the government. Additionally, he criticized the costs of voting, stating that organizers of the 'silly referendum' withdrew 12 million euros from the state budget, yet accuse the cabinet of financing celebrations of St. Cyril and Methodius Day.
Bias read (Right): The article frames the referendum as a failed and nonsensical effort orchestrated by the opposition, which Fico accuses of spreading hatred and exploiting sensitive issues. The language used ('fiasko', 'nesmysl', 'politického zneužití', 'protislovenská a protivládní média') carries a strong negative
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 60): Factuality is high as the article accurately reports Fico's statements and his criticism of the opposition's motives. However, objectivity is lower due to the emotionally charged language and biased framing, particularly in comparing Čaputová's actions to Fico's, which may not be fair or balanced.
