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Jan Zobec: The referendum initiative to remove Stevanović is a subversion of the democratic process of electing the President of the National Assembly
Slovenia🏛️ PoliticsLean Progressive8 days ago

Jan Zobec: The referendum initiative to remove Stevanović is a subversion of the democratic process of electing the President of the National Assembly

The article discusses political maneuvering by the transitional leftist faction targeting Zoran Stevanović, the president of the National Council. They have demanded his resignation due to dissatisfaction with Prime Minister Janez Janša’s government. Various actions were taken, including submitting a constitutional complaint and attempting to remove him from office. A petition led by former politician Brejc, likely in collaboration with three opposition parties, has initiated a consultative referendum to question whether the National Council should dismiss Stevanović. Legal experts, including former Supreme Court Justice Jan Zobec, argue that these efforts lack direction and legitimacy. The petition was later found to include fake signatures, including those of Vladimir Putin and fabricated names. After the petition was withdrawn, an alternative petition was launched by influential internet figure Aleksandar Repić. Three opposition parties then proposed a consultative referendum, which would not have legal effect. Critics argue such measures undermine democratic processes and could lead to further erosion of democracy.

Former SDS Deputy President Files Petition Against Stevanović On August 21, 2026, former deputy president of the Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS), Miha Brejc, announced his decision to lead a petition demanding the resignation of Zoran Stevanović, the current head of the National Assembly. The move has sparked widespread discussion, with many viewing it as a direct challenge to the political right wing, particularly to Prime Minister Janez Janša and his party. Brejc, who once served as the chief of Slovenia’s intelligence service (then known as VIS), has long been a vocal critic of the ruling conservative forces. His recent actions have drawn attention due to their potential implications beyond mere political dissent. The petition, which Brejc claims is aimed at raising public awareness about constitutional principles, calls for respect for the constitution and the Constitutional Court. He argues that citizens must uphold these institutions while politicians appear to disregard them. “We must inform the public,” Brejc told journalist Manica Janežič Ambrožič during an interview on TV Slovenia. “The constitution must be respected. The Constitutional Court must be respected. Citizens expect us to follow the law, yet they break it.” The petition's deeper motivation, however, lies in the alleged failure to establish a parliamentary commission to investigate the activities of the Israeli intelligence agency Black Cube. Brejc asserts that this omission is linked to the controversial involvement of Gioro Eiland, one of Israel’s most powerful figures and architect of the Gaza operation that some describe as genocide. According to Brejc, Eiland was brought into Slovenia under the influence of certain political circles, suggesting a broader pattern of foreign interference in domestic affairs. While the petition appears to target Janša’s right-wing faction, Brejc insists it ultimately points to one individual, Janez Janša himself. This claim is rooted in Brejc’s belief that Janša has historically aligned with individuals and policies that undermine national sovereignty. Brejc, who has previously worked alongside former president Jože Pučnik, draws a parallel between their approaches, arguing that Janša’s actions contradict the values of state integrity. Brejc’s stance reflects a growing tension within Slovenian politics, where traditional democratic norms are increasingly challenged by authoritarian tendencies. The situation has parallels with past years, such as the period between 2020 and 2022, when similar divisions emerged. During that time, political leaders from different factions found themselves divided over ideological differences, even as they faced external pressures. Meanwhile, the controversy surrounding Stevanović deepened after reports surfaced that he had engaged in secret communications with Vladimir Volodin, a high-ranking official in the Russian parliament. These exchanges, captured in a leaked audio recording obtained exclusively by the Israeli intelligence agency Black Cube, reveal a troubling level of coordination between Slovenian and Russian officials. In the conversation, Stevanović refers to Janša as a figure who has lost his way, aligning with far-right leaders like Viktor Orbán and Aleksandar Vučić while simultaneously opposing Russia. Stevanović, in turn, suggests that Janša’s alignment with Moscow could be beneficial for Russia, especially given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He implies that Janša might help stabilize relations between the two nations, despite his public criticism of Russian aggression. The dialogue highlights the complex web of alliances and rivalries shaping Slovenian politics, with Stevanović seemingly positioning himself as a key player in international diplomacy. This dynamic has led to sharp criticisms from opposition figures, including Luka Mesec, who accused Stevanović of acting in interests other than those of Slovenia. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Janša has remained largely silent, despite being directly implicated in the discussions. His silence has fueled speculation about his role in the unfolding political drama. As the situation continues to evolve, the focus remains on whether Brejc’s petition will gain enough support to force a change in leadership or whether it will remain a symbolic gesture. What is clear, however, is that the lines between domestic politics and international intrigue are becoming increasingly blurred, with consequences that extend well beyond Slovenia’s borders.

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6 reports

Mladina logoMladinaIndependentProgressiveFactual 90Objective 7010 days ago
What are you talking about? New alliances?

The article discusses a petition initiated by former SDS deputy Miha Brejc, who criticizes current Slovenian political figures, including Prime Minister Janez Janša and SDS leader Zoran Stevanović. Brejc argues that the public needs to be informed about violations of the constitution and laws by political leaders, particularly referencing the lack of parliamentary commission to investigate the Black Cube affair. The article suggests that the petition against Stevanović is indirectly targeting Janša, highlighting concerns over potential collusion with Israeli intelligence figures like Giora Eiland, who was involved in planning the Gaza humanitarian crisis. The piece portrays Brejc as a principled former intelligence chief who values national sovereignty and opposes selling Slovenia’s interests to external forces.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the petition as a necessary action to uphold constitutional principles and holds political leaders accountable for alleged law-breaking. It emphasizes Brejc’s integrity and his criticism of the ruling right-wing SDS leadership, suggesting their actions undermine national interests

Why factuality (90): The article accurately reports that Miha Brejc, a former SDS deputy chairman and critic of Janez Janša and the SDS, submitted a petition calling for the resignation of Zoran Stevanović, the president of the National Assembly. It quotes Brejc’s explanation that the petition aims to raise public aware

Why objectivity (70): The article has a slightly biased tone by referring to Brejc as a 'critic of the Slovenian right' and using phrases like 'very convincingly answered,' which may imply approval of his stance. However, it generally presents the facts without overtly favoring one side.

Večer logoVečerIndependent🔒ProgressiveFactual 85Objective 7016 days ago
Stevanovic's excursion to Moscow or where did the princes disappear from the train to Kiev?

The article discusses the planned visit of Slovenia's President of the National Council, Zoran Stevanović, to Moscow amid Russia's ongoing aggression against Ukraine. It contrasts this with former Prime Minister Janez Janša’s 2022 trip to Ukraine to show solidarity with the invaded country. The piece raises questions about whether such high-level visits by Slovenian officials during the war can be justified as personal or party-driven motives, and what implications this might have for Slovenia’s foreign policy. It also highlights internal tensions within the ruling coalition, noting that the Social Democrats (SDS) distance themselves from Stevanović’s intentions, while Janša’s government lacks a parliamentary majority. The article speculates whether the Moscow visit could become a significant issue for Janša’s coalition or if it might instead serve as a distraction from more pressing domestic challenges.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the potential visit to Moscow as raising concerns about the alignment of Slovenian leadership with Russian interests during the war in Ukraine. While it does not explicitly criticize the visit, it emphasizes the contrast between past actions (Janša’s support for Ukraine) and the现任

Why factuality (85): The article accurately summarizes the situation around Stevanović’s planned visit to Moscow, referencing past events and current political dynamics. It cites statements from various parties, including SDS, and aligns closely with the cross-source consensus. However, some interpretations of the impli

Why objectivity (70): While the article attempts to present multiple perspectives, it leans toward questioning the legitimacy of Stevanović’s actions and highlights the potential conflict within Janša’s coalition. This introduces a slight bias, though it remains relatively balanced compared to other articles.

Zanima.me logoZanima.meIndependentProgressiveFactual 85Objective 6510 days ago
Secret algorithm and signatures from Israel: Why Brother's petition with 70,000 entries fails due diligence

The article discusses concerns over the validity of a petition organized by Miha Brejc, which collected over 70,000 signatures calling for the resignation of State Assembly President Zoran Stevanović. The petition was criticized for allowing anonymous submissions, enabling users to input any name multiple times, making it impossible to verify the authenticity of the signatures. When Brejc paused the collection, he claimed that an algorithm identified thousands of duplicate entries from Israel and India, which were then removed. However, questions remain about how the origin of these signatures was determined, the functionality of the algorithm, and whether the claims of verification were accurate, especially since the form did not check email addresses or identity. The article also raises doubts about whether Brejc acted alone or if there was external support, noting that he has claimed to have expertise in information technology and AI but has not provided clear evidence of his involvement.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the petition as a legitimate democratic action while questioning the integrity of the process. It highlights the lack of verification mechanisms and suggests potential manipulation, which aligns more with a critical stance toward authority figures like Stevanović. The emphasis on

Why factuality (85): The article provides detailed information about the technical flaws in the petition, such as the lack of identity verification and the possibility of multiple submissions from the same user. It also mentions the withdrawal of the petition after the discovery of signatures from Israel and India. Thes

Why objectivity (65): The article uses emotionally charged language such as 'skrivnostni algoritem' ('secret algorithm') and 'nepoverjen' ('untrustworthy'), which introduces bias. It also raises questions about the legitimacy of the petition without providing balanced perspectives from all sides involved.

Nova24TV logoNova24TVParty-alignedCenterFactual 75Objective 559 days ago
Lawyer Zobec on the referendum initiative to remove Stevanović: This is a devaluation of the referendum and the rules of parliamentary democracy

The Slovenian opposition has launched a referendum initiative calling for the removal of Zoran Stevanović, the President of the National Assembly, as part of their broader effort to push for the resignation of Prime Minister Janez Janša’s government. The move follows failed legal challenges against Stevanović’s election, including a constitutional complaint and attempts to remove him through parliamentary procedures. A petition supporting his removal was recently withdrawn after it was discovered to include fabricated names and signatures from countries like India and Israel, raising questions about its legitimacy. Alternative petitions were later proposed, but they face similar credibility issues. Legal experts, such as former Constitutional Court judge Jan Zobec, argue that while such a referendum is technically possible under existing laws, it lacks practical significance since it would not result in any binding decision. Critics warn that using referendums for every political dispute risks undermining democratic processes.

Bias read (Center): The article presents multiple perspectives on the referendum proposal, including criticism from legal experts and political commentators, without overtly favoring one side. It highlights both the procedural feasibility and the perceived lack of practical impact of the referendum, maintaining a fact-

Why factuality (75): The article reports on political maneuvering around a potential referendum to remove Zoran Stevanović from his position as head of state. It references legal actions taken by the opposition, including petitions and attempts to challenge his election. While these events are plausible based on the cro

Why objectivity (55): The tone is clearly critical of the opposition’s tactics, suggesting they are using the referendum as a distraction from larger political issues. The language implies bias toward the current government and dismisses the legitimacy of the opposition’s actions, showing a lack of neutrality.

Demokracija logoDemokracijaParty-alignedProgressiveFactual 65Objective 558 days ago
Jan Zobec: The referendum initiative to remove Stevanović is a subversion of the democratic process of electing the President of the National Assembly

The article discusses political maneuvering by the transitional leftist faction targeting Zoran Stevanović, the president of the National Council. They have demanded his resignation due to dissatisfaction with Prime Minister Janez Janša’s government. Various actions were taken, including submitting a constitutional complaint and attempting to remove him from office. A petition led by former politician Brejc, likely in collaboration with three opposition parties, has initiated a consultative referendum to question whether the National Council should dismiss Stevanović. Legal experts, including former Supreme Court Justice Jan Zobec, argue that these efforts lack direction and legitimacy. The petition was later found to include fake signatures, including those of Vladimir Putin and fabricated names. After the petition was withdrawn, an alternative petition was launched by influential internet figure Aleksandar Repić. Three opposition parties then proposed a consultative referendum, which would not have legal effect. Critics argue such measures undermine democratic processes and could lead to further erosion of democracy.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the actions of the opposition as legitimate democratic responses against perceived authoritarianism, while dismissing the legitimacy of the petition process and questioning the motives behind the referendum proposal. It emphasizes the need for direct democracy and criticizes the '

Why factuality (65): The article reports on political maneuvering around the potential removal of Zoran Stevanović from his position as head of state assembly. It references legal actions such as constitutional complaints and petitions, but does not provide specific dates or official sources for these claims. The mentio

Why objectivity (55): The tone leans towards criticism of the left-wing opposition's tactics, using terms like 'subversion of democratic process' and suggesting the petition was manipulated. The article presents the political conflict through a biased lens, favoring the current government's stance while questioning the l

Večer logoVečerIndependent🔒ConservativeFactual 60Objective 5014 days ago
We have a recording of Stevanovic's conversation with the Chairman of the Russian Duma.

The article reports on an exclusive recording obtained by the Israeli intelligence agency Black Cube, revealing a conversation between Slovenian parliamentary speaker Zoran Stevanović and Russian parliament speaker Vyacheslav Volodin. The dialogue suggests a private exchange where Stevanović discusses his relationship with Prime Minister Janez Janša, indicating he holds significant influence over him. Stevanović also mentions plans to visit Moscow at Volodin’s invitation and hints at potential future collaborations, including arranging holidays in Russia. The article raises questions about the nature of these interactions and their implications for Slovenia’s foreign policy.

Bias read (Conservative): The article presents the conversation in a manner that emphasizes Stevanović’s perceived independence from Janša and implies a potential alignment with Russia, which could be seen as favorable to right-leaning narratives. It frames the interaction as potentially controversial but does not provide a衡

Why factuality (60): This article presents an exclusive 'magnetogram' of a conversation between Stevanović and a Russian official, but it does not provide verifiable sources or context for the authenticity of the recording. The claim that it was obtained by an Israeli intelligence agency lacks transparency, and the cont

Why objectivity (50): The article has a strong sensational tone, using emotive language and framing the conversation as evidence of potential wrongdoing. There is clear editorializing, especially in the questions posed to Stevanović, which suggests a biased perspective rather than impartial reporting.

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