Slovak Central Bank Chief Bribery Case Draws Criticism

Peter Kažimír, Slovakia's central bank governor and a member of the European Central Bank's Governing Council, was convicted of offering a €48,000 bribe in 2016 while he was finance minister. He was fined €200,000 and faces a one-year prison sentence if the fine is not paid, and he has indicated plans to appeal while maintaining his innocence. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, an ally of Kažimír, publicly criticized the judge and described the ruling as politically motivated, prompting concerns about political interference in the judiciary. NGOs and observers have warned that such political attacks could undermine judicial independence. The case is part of broader anti-corruption efforts targeting officials linked to Fico's previous governments and has raised questions about the integrity of the European Central Bank. Kažimír's term as governor is set to expire soon, but he may remain in office until a successor is appointed.