NSi's candidate to focus on solidarity, economy, defence
Ljubljana - The council of the opposition New Slovenia (NSi) unanimously endorsed on Friday deputy faction leader Janez Cigler Kralj's bid to stand for Slovenian president in the 23 October election. Solidarity, peace and stability, a well as strengthening the country's economy and defence forces, will be among his key priorities.
The minister of labour, the family, social affairs and equal opportunities in the previous government will thus run with the support of his party and MP signatures.
He thanked the party leadership as well as two former NSi leaders, Ljudmila Novak and Lojze Peterle, for the support.
As president, Cigler Kralj would like to change the attitude towards those who work, are creative and enterprising, and those who are vulnerable and marginalised.
Given the challenges ahead, he believes Slovenia needs a president able to identify opportunities for the country and citizens, and position itself in the international arena.
"The times we're living in and the times ahead are challenging and call for a president who understands, listens and hears the people," he told the press.
Convinced that presidency needs more humanity and compassion, he would like to be a president that units people, a feature he sees in incumbent President Borut Pahor.
Cigler Kralj is in favour of expanding the president's powers in some areas, for instance in judicial appointments.
Stressing that he is "wiling to serve Slovenia and its citizens", he said he had decided to run because people had approached him and the party "expressing their distress that there was no-one among the current candidates for whom they would calmly and sincerely cast their vote" and "because I simply love people and Slovenia".