The nationwide "Cultural Torch" protest culminated in Bratislava. Organised by the Open Culture Association, it was launched on 17 November as a relay that gradually moved from eastern Slovakia through 22 cities. On Thursday, it symbolically ended in the capital in front of the Ministry of Culture's headquarters. The organisers are demanding, among other things, the resignation of Minister Martina Šimkovičová and the Ministry’s Chief-of-Staff Lukáš Machala.
Members of the drama ensemble of the Slovak National Theatre came to support the protest along with employees who have been made redundant by the Department of Culture. They speak of political purges in the ministry.
In the past, the ministry repeatedly declared in written statements that it respects the right of people to protest. “However, the leadership of the Culture Ministry was elected democratically, and it would be wise for the striking section of the cultural community to respect that fact,” stated Petra Bacinska, its spokesperson. In addition to the opposition, some members of the ruling coalition have expressed their dissatisfaction with the work of the minister. Despite this, Martina Šimkovičová has already survived two extraordinary meetings at which they tried to have her dismissed. Prime Minister Robert Fico has repeatedly supported her.
Source: STVR
