TO LURE as many voters as possible to cast ballots on election day, officials in the municipality of Mýtna (Banská Bystrica Region) prepared a cultural programme lasting the entire day. The day’s events began at 10:00 with entertainment from the popular band Ščamba from eastern Slovakia. They called their gig ‘Ščamba Votes in Mýtna’ and the musicians really did cast their votes in this municipality. The folk ensemble Ďatelinka from Hriňová took over in the afternoon in attracting voters and all citizens had a chance to help knock down the town’s maypole, which had been left standing until election day. The LCB Band from Lučenec, a country group, took the stage later in the day and performed for those who had already voted as well as those still contemplating their decision. Everyone was offered free goulash and playground activities were available for their children.
Mayor Pavel Greksa told the SITA newswire that the event was meant to encourage people to come and vote and not to promote any one specific party, adding that he is not a member of any party. Even though municipal officials organised the get-out-the-vote event, it was financed by local businesses and the mayor estimated overall costs to be about €2,600. During the day a collection was also taken to assist a local family with a disabled child.
