Janša: possible acquittal of the DPRK and indictments

Janez Janša, leader of Slovenia's ruling party SDS and prime minister, has suggested the possibility of disciplinary action against the State Election Commission (DVK) and criminal charges following disputes over the recent advisory referendum on mandatory TV license fees. The outcome of the referendum remains uncertain after initial vote counts showed a narrow margin in favor of abolishing the fee, with results from overseas votes still pending until October 19. Meanwhile, the SDS is considering introducing a voluntary payment system for the TV license, according to statements made by Janša on social media. The commission responded to these allegations, emphasizing its role as an independent body responsible for ensuring the legality and impartiality of elections and referendums. It warned that general accusations without factual basis could undermine public trust in electoral processes. The DVK stressed that while it acknowledges the importance of public scrutiny, it will not engage in political disputes and will address specific claims professionally and based on verifiable evidence. The upcoming session of the National Assembly on October 16 will consider a request for a new constitutional referendum on the intervention law aimed at promoting Slovenia’s development, scheduled for December 6. This law was initially prepared by members of the previous government before the current coalition took office. Unions have collected over 47,000 signatures to challenge the law through a referendum, although the assembly previously ruled the initiative invalid due to tax-related provisions. After the Constitutional Court overturned this decision, unions gathered more than the required number of verified signatures and submitted their request for a referendum on the law. In addition to the referendum on the intervention law, the coalition of SDS, New Slovenia (NSi), and Democrats proposed three additional advisory referendums on lowering VAT on basic food items and energy products, rationalizing public administration, and banning face-covering in public spaces. These proposals were presented alongside the referendum on the intervention law. NSi deputy leader Janez Žakelj emphasized the necessity of addressing rising costs of essential goods, while SDS member Zvonko Černač highlighted the need for broad consensus on streamlining bureaucratic procedures. Regarding the ban on face-covering, Elena Zavadlav Ušaj of the Democrats stated the proposal aims for a neutral regulation, whereas Žakelj argued it relates to issues of religious attire and integration amid increased migration. On October 12, MP Boris Mijič of the Resilience party resigned from his position as an MP following pressure from the executive committee of the party. His resignation comes amid ongoing discussions about the future direction of the country's policies and governance structures.