Smer 'Countess' Gets Suspended Sentence Thanks to Government's Legal Changes; Danko Seeks Minister's Ouster

In Slovakia, the legal and political landscape is once again under scrutiny, as highlighted by SME. The case of Ľubica Rošková, a former Smer party member, exemplifies how recent legislative changes are impacting judicial outcomes. Rošková, often referred to as the 'Countess of Zemplín,' received a suspended three-year sentence and a €10,000 fine for defrauding the European Union's financial interests and subsidy fraud, specifically related to agro-subsidies for asphalted land. This sentence, confirmed by the Supreme Court, is a stark contrast to the potential 7 to 12 years she could have faced before the current government's amendments to the Penal Code.

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The sentence is a moderate deviation from the original sentence, as the specialized court had sentenced her to a five-year suspended sentence two years ago and did not count on a financial penalty.

Rošková's case is a prime example of the 'beneficiary effect' of the penal code revisions pushed by the current government. Prosecutor Ladislav Masár acknowledged that the sentence was 'considered' and reflected the changed legal environment. He noted that Rošková was 'doubly advantaged' by the changes, which lowered the scale of her criminal activity and softened the penalties for the offenses. This situation raises questions about the government's influence on the judiciary and the fairness of sentences when legislative changes retroactively benefit accused individuals.

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Her case is another one affected by the criminal amendment of the current government.

Politically, the article reveals a rift within the ruling coalition. Andrej Danko, leader of the Slovak National Party (SNS), has reportedly demanded the dismissal of Tomáš Taraba, the Minister of Environment, from Prime Minister Robert Fico. Danko's dissatisfaction stems from the SNS's perceived lack of influence within the ministry, which is led by his party's nominee. However, Prime Minister Fico has publicly supported Taraba, indicating that the minister will not be removed from his post. This internal discord highlights the ongoing power dynamics and potential instability within Fico's government.

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The height of the sentence corresponds to how the situation has changed in criminal law in Slovakia.

From our perspective at SME, these events underscore a concerning trend where legal reforms appear to serve political interests, potentially undermining public trust in the justice system. The leniency shown to Rošková, contrasted with the political maneuvering within the coalition, paints a picture of a government grappling with internal divisions and facing criticism over its approach to justice and governance. The story also touches upon other significant issues, such as the potential freezing of Slovak EU funds and accusations of cartel behavior, indicating a broader set of challenges confronting the nation.

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She was doubly advantaged by the changes that occurred.