Slovak President Signs Košice Reform Law Despite Constitutional Concerns

Slovakia's president has signed legislation reforming the governance structure of Košice, the country's second-largest city, despite warnings from the country's ombudsman about potential constitutional violations. The new law adds a deputy mayor position, increases the number of city council members, and prepares for a reduction in the number of city districts. The Public Defender of Rights, Slovakia's ombudsman institution that protects citizens' rights and monitors legal compliance, has announced plans to challenge the legislation at the Constitutional Court. The ombudsman argues the reforms could create unequal voting power among citizens, violating constitutional principles of equal representation in municipal elections.