The Government of the Slovak Republic, as the main culprit for the entire situation, has decided to address the declining standard of living for the vast majority of the population in Slovakia in its own characteristic way (i.e., making it worse). Instead of responsibly managing public finances—a course of action anyone genuinely intending to solve the situation would take—it is compensating citizens for their unfavourable situation in a very bizarre manner: by boosting their self-esteem!
For radio and television debates that would require actual experts, the government sends out debaters thanks to whom every small-town simpleton (let alone those from the city) must feel like King Solomon.
In the short term, this might appear to be an excellent idea. The citizen, pleased with how much they've improved (without realising the bar has been set damned low), will at least briefly forget the miserable state of their wallet.
In the long term, however, this looks like another disaster. Municipal and regional elections await Slovakia in 2026. It is not out of the question that a few of these 'Solomons' will feel an incredible urge to run for office. And the country will once again go out of the frying pan and into the fire!
Used illustration: Austrian author from the 18th century: King Solomon, 1760, drawing, Peter Michal Bohúň Gallery in Liptov (GPB), Slovakia
Originally written for groteskne.sk
