Rise and Fall of Slovakia’s First Female President Shown in ‘Ms. President’: She Faced ‘Aggressively Misogynistic Atmosphere’

As a film enthusiast with a keen interest in politics and a soft spot for trailblazing leaders, I find myself deeply moved by the story of Zuzana Caputova, the first female president of Slovakia. Having watched “Ms. President,” I can attest to Sulik’s words – Caputova is indeed a rare breed of politician who embodies openness, transparency, and decency.


Zuzana Caputova ascended to the Slovak presidency on a tide of discontent over corruption, and her victory marked optimism for countless fellow citizens. Half a decade following her 2019 election, Caputova opted to step down from her position as leader instead of persisting in the struggle against corruption. According to Marek Sulik, director of “Ms. President,” which chronicles her rise and descent, Caputova was not driven by power for its own sake.

At the Ji.hlava Documentary Film Festival, Sulik remarked, “Zuzana Caputova possesses an intriguing knack for remaining authentic.” The festival kicked off on Friday with a screening of the film.

Caputova’s surprising victory stemmed from widespread protests and outrage following the contract killing of Slovak journalist Jan Kuciak and his partner Martina Kusnirova in 2018. The investigation into their murders uncovered links between organized crime and high-ranking officials within the Slovak government at that time, led by Prime Minister Robert Fico.

As a moviegoer witnessing the political drama unfolding in Slovakia, I can confidently say that the unexpected ousting of their president sparked an unprecedented surge of excitement among the citizens reminiscent of the energy generated by the 1989 Velvet Revolution.

As President, Caputova – a human rights advocate and lawyer – encountered one obstacle after another. Moreover, her presidency and her family were subjected to threatening messages.

Sulik states that the ongoing tale unfolding in Slovakia mirrors events happening globally. He expresses concern as nationalists and populists are seizing control, a situation he finds undesirable.

Caputova encountered similar challenges as those Kamala Harris experienced during her presidential campaign, according to Sulik’s analysis.

She too encountered “a harshly sexist environment within society,” as Sulik points out. “Given these circumstances, being a politician proved particularly challenging. I believe her exhaustion was palpable after serving for five years.

Regarding the implications of Caputova stepping down, the director expresses, “It’s unfortunate, but it appears the populists are in control again. It seems almost unreal, like a plot from a disappointing film titled ‘The Resurgence of the Unscrupulous.’

In an affirmation, Sulik highlights that Slovakia’s pioneering female president, who is a rarity among female leaders in Eastern Europe, consistently adhered to her core principles.

Gaining firsthand knowledge through the filming process, he developed unique insights into Caputova’s personality – traits that are seldom seen in many national leaders.

Sulik mentions that he appreciates her honesty, clarity, and integrity during their conversations,” he says. “She didn’t resort to manipulative tactics when they first debated, and she never did so afterward.

Throughout Caputova’s campaign, inauguration, and her entire single term, Sulik claims he had exceptional access to the Presidential Palace.

According to Sulik, the departure of Caputova is a significant setback. “On a personal level, her decision not to run again was very disappointing for me. From a social perspective, it means losing a crucial ally among the democratic forces.

The determining factor in ending her presidency may well have been her ideals, says Sulik.

From my understanding, Zuzana Caputova is known for her meticulous nature. Unlike many politicians, she has always maintained an independent stance towards political authority. Simultaneously, she cherishes a deep familial bond. Her concern extends to the well-being of those dearest to her.

Initially, she expressed her intention was not to govern but to assist. However, I believe she struggled to find many fellow politicians, particularly those actively involved, who shared this perspective. Consequently, I suspect she often felt isolated.

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2024-10-27 18:47