Look at the mayor of Kranj: it's not a coincidence (VIDEO)

The mayor of Kranj, Matjaž Rakovec, spent his recent summer days not by the sea but on his family farm, engaging in physical labor such as digging and harvesting potatoes. The footage he shared online shows him wearing rolled-up sleeves, gripping a hoe, and working alongside his team. He posted a video of the harvest, clearly proud of the result, and wrote that there's nothing better than homegrown potatoes. He emphasized that a good yield doesn't happen by chance, it requires effort, persistence, and care throughout the year. Rakovec demonstrated that manual work is not foreign to him and that he knows how to relax far away from the mayor’s office. His summer break was notably different from the carefree sunbathing typically associated with holidays. Rakovec's recent activities on the farm were captured in a video he shared publicly, showing him actively involved in the potato harvest. In one of his posts, he stated, “There is nothing better than homegrown potatoes.” He added that a large potato does not grow by chance, highlighting the need for hard work, perseverance, and attention through the entire growing season. The video showed him picking up large tubers from the soil, and the outcome brought a smile to his face, confirming that his efforts had paid off. Rakovec thus proved that even a mayor can spend his summer not in the sun but in workwear, enjoying the fruits of his labor. Rakovec has long been known for his athletic spirit, which followed him into adulthood. As a young man, he was an active sportsman, participating in hockey and water polo. Later, he remained closely connected to sports, becoming an international water polo referee. Between 2010 and 2018, he led the Slovenian Hockey Association. The discipline and competitiveness he developed through sports seem to follow him today, though this time he tested himself in the fight for a more abundant harvest. On the video, it is possible to see how he picks up large tubers of homegrown potatoes from the ground. The result painted a smile on his face and confirmed that the effort invested had yielded results. Rakovec thereby demonstrated that even a mayor can choose to spend his summer not in the sun but in work clothes, enjoying the fruits of his labor. Rakovec's engagement in agricultural work reflects a broader trend among public figures who seek to connect with their roots and demonstrate a hands-on approach to leadership. His actions have sparked discussions about the role of local leaders in promoting rural life and sustainable practices. Some observers noted that his involvement in farming could inspire others to take an interest in agriculture and community-based initiatives. Others pointed out that his choice to engage in manual labor might serve both personal and political purposes, reinforcing his image as a down-to-earth leader. The mayor's decision to share the video online indicates a strategic move to highlight his connection to the land and his commitment to hard work. This aligns with his previous roles in sports administration, where he emphasized discipline and teamwork. By showcasing his agricultural efforts, Rakovec aims to reinforce his identity as a leader who values practical experience and community involvement. His actions suggest a desire to bridge the gap between urban governance and rural realities, emphasizing the importance of traditional skills in modern leadership. Rakovec's recent activities have drawn attention from both supporters and critics. Supporters praised his initiative, viewing it as a refreshing contrast to the typical leisure activities of politicians during the summer months. Critics, however, questioned whether such gestures were genuine or merely calculated to enhance his public image. Despite these differing opinions, the mayor's actions have undeniably contributed to ongoing conversations about the role of public officials in fostering a deeper connection with their constituents and the land they represent.