Elections26: Pirate Party Leader Subova Latest to Run for Bratislava Mayor Post

Bratislava, 6 April (TASR) - Pirate Party leader Zuzana Subova became the latest person to announce her candidacy for the Bratislava mayor post earlier last week. Subova defended her candidacy by saying that Slovakia needs to be 'fixed', as it is in a catastrophic condition, and the process needs to start in the capital city. She spoke about systemic failures, a lack of transparency and inefficient management of public resources. Subova has told TASR that she views an in-depth economic and personnel audit of the City Council as one of the priorities. "Bratislava has become a city of fines, sanctions and disproportionate tax increases. Compared to nearby capitals, it's among the 'leaders' in terms of sanctions, which doesn't make it a resident- or visitor-friendly city," stated Subova, pointing to the absence of professional management or a clear plan in the areas of transport, infrastructure or the maintenance of public spaces. In addition to the audit, Subova promises to revise key contracts and projects that have the biggest impact on the city's budget. "Bratislava's budget of some €750 million isn't a slot machine; it's taxpayers' money," she stressed, adding that it's unacceptable to ignore the opinion of the public or local people. Subova wants to present her election programme, namely a specific plan for Bratislava, gradually. It should involve real projects that will improve the lives of Bratislava residents and visitors to the city. She also wants to draw on experience from abroad. Subova has worked in both the public and private sectors and also served as a local councillor in Bratislava's borough of Devin. Candidacies for the Bratislava mayor post have also been announced by current mayor Matus Vallo (Team Bratislava, Progressive Slovakia, Freedom and Solidarity and Democrats), Bratislava city and regional councillor Martin Winkler (Dunaj party) and long-term mayor of Bratislava's borough of Karlova Ves Dana Cahojova (Independent). Miroslav Heredos and Lubomir Geci (both Independent) also intend to run. Transport Minister Jozef Raz's (a Smer-SD nominee) name has been mentioned in this connection as well, but he said that he'll make a decision following the poll in May. ko/df/mf