Slovenians Mobilise for Another Anti-Jansa Push, Demanding Elections

Al least 10,000 protesters gathered in the centre of the capital Ljubljana's Preseren Square on Friday for an anti-government protest entitled "All-Slovenian uprising", calling for an end to the right-wing government of Janez Jansa and snap elections.

The protesters accused Jansa of using the coronavirus pandemic to restrict freedoms, ignoring social dialogue, attacking the media and spreading hatred.

Anti-government protests have continued for more than a year in Slovenia so far since Jansa resumed power. At times when gatherings were restricted, protesters staged protest walks instead in small groups, hanging banners and even organising an online protest concert.

Jansa came to power for a third stint as prime minister in March last year, after the previous government led by Marjan Sarec collapsed.

Shortly after he returned, protests started during the lockdown on people's balconies and windows.

Protestniki zavzeli Ljubljano. Prešernov trg je premajhen za vse ⬇️⬇️ @vecer pic.twitter.com/LzIhI1XZnb

— LukaM (@mlakarjev) May 28, 2021

In April last year, protesters began to hold mobile rallies on bicycles. Since then, cycling protests have been held every Friday.

Last week, anti-government demonstrations merged with another rally held in support of the Palestinians in Gaza and condemning military action undertaken by Israel.

Protesters accused police of using excessive force against peaceful demonstrators. According to local media, this week they filed a criminal charge and called on the human rights ombudsman to investigate alleged violations, including the targeting of particular protesters, mostly foreigners, which the police has denied doing.

Five of the largest...