The director of Nove24TV on the new car of Minister John Cigler the King: "If I drove a BMW 7 Series or a Mercedes S ... "

On August 5, 2026, Boris Tomašič, director of Nova24TV, posted a comment on his X account suggesting that Minister Janez Cigler Kralj, who recently transitioned from the National Council of Slovenia (NSi) into government, might face scrutiny due to his choice of vehicle. Tomašič noted that if the minister were driving a BMW Series 7 or a Mercedes S-Class, there would be no issue. His remark came after he observed public reaction to the minister's car, which he described as a "family car." Cigler Kralj, a member of the Slovenian People’s Party (NSi), took office as minister of agriculture following the recent elections. He moved from the National Council, a body representing Slovenia’s national minorities, to the cabinet, marking a shift in political roles. This transition occurred around the time he addressed concerns regarding a potential financial shortfall within his ministry, inherited from the previous administration. Tomašič, known for his commentary on political affairs, highlighted what he perceived as a lack of seriousness in the minister’s public image. His comment sparked discussion among followers, with some questioning whether the minister’s personal choices reflected broader issues of responsibility or suitability for public service. Others saw it as a harmless observation, pointing out that ministers often have to balance personal preferences with professional expectations. The conversation has extended beyond Cigler Kralj to include other figures in the new government. Discussions are ongoing about how Minister Aleš Primc, appointed as head of the Directorate for Demographics, Family, and Social Affairs, will handle his role. Known for his involvement in referendums, Primc has been placed in charge of a newly restructured ministry tasked with addressing demographic challenges. Observers are watching to see how he approaches this high-profile position, especially given the recent focus on transparency and accountability in government. Tomašič’s remarks reflect a growing trend of public scrutiny of politicians' private lives, particularly in relation to their public conduct. While some argue that such comments are unwarranted, others believe they highlight the importance of leaders setting an example through their actions. In a country where political stability and public trust are paramount, even minor aspects of a leader's lifestyle can become subjects of debate. As the new government begins its work, questions remain about how officials will navigate both professional responsibilities and public perception. Whether Tomašič’s comments will lead to further discussions or simply fade into the background depends on how the minister and his colleagues respond to the attention. For now, the focus remains on the immediate implications of these remarks and the wider context of political discourse in Slovenia.