Attack on prime minister prompts tougher assembly laws in Slovakia

Following the assassination attempt on Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico two months ago, a controversial law that restricts freedom of assembly took effect on Monday.

The law, known as the Lex Attentat, was passed at the end of June in response to the gun attack on Fico.

It requires a 50-metre radius around the seat of government and the presidency, parliament and all court buildings.

Demonstrations against politicians in front of their residences are also banned. Gatherings can also be banned if they jeopardize public order.

Opposition critics have warned that the law is a step towards a "police state." The package of measures also provides for leaders of parties represented in parliament to be granted the right to personal protection.

Under the law, personal protection is also to be provided for the attorney general and the president of the Constitutional Court. Prime ministers who spend more than 10 years in office will be entitled to a lifetime pension. So far, this only applies to Fico.

On May 15, an attacker critically wounded Fico, a left-wing populist, with several shots at close range. The 71-year-old gunman, in justifying his attack, said he hated the government. Fico's Smer party has been governing in a coalition with the extreme right-wing Slovak National Party (SNS) since October.

Fico has since been able to resume his official duties.