President Zuzana Čaputová during an interview with the Sme daily on May 27, 2024. (source: SME - Jozef Jakubčo)
Now former Slovak president Zuzana Čaputová is looking forward to some time off before embarking on a new journey. In five years, she faced major crises, from a pandemic to a war.
“One of the hardest realisations was the gap between people’s expectations from the head of state and the actual powers held during these crises,” she admits.
Despite challenges, she is proud of what she has achieved, and reminds people of the good image the country has abroad, asking people not to lose hope.
Are you excited that your term has ended?
It’s natural for a person to look forward to some rest. I will be able to switch off, especially from the constant awareness of responsibility that comes with such a position 24/7.
Every time I looked at my phone, I had to check if something had happened, whether related to state security or other circumstances that require a response. Especially considering that my five years have been unique. There have been numerous moments when I had to look at my phone with a serious expression.
I believe that relief will come gradually, not instantly.
At my secondary school daughter’s graduation, I told myself, “Great, I don’t have to give a speech here.” I look forward to moments like these. But, of course, there will be things I’ll miss, such as meeting great people and having a wonderful team around me.
You are leaving office during challenging times. Are you worried about the direction Slovakia is heading towards?
