By Andrej Žitnik (Nova24tv.si)
Recently published diploma thesis by Tina Gaber about the use of illegal drugs in the Slovenian showbiz scene reveals many things, even in the political sphere.
It is no secret that the banned drug cocaine is already widespread. This is confirmed by analyses of wastewater, where traces have even been found in the parliaments of democratic countries. Over a decade ago, in the premises of the European Parliament in Brussels, traces of cocaine were found in 41 out of 46 samples.
Talks about illegal drugs on the Slovenian political scene began with the arrival of Borut Pahor’s government, where the then Prime Minister himself was accused of drug use. To silence the rumours, the then Interior Minister, Katarina Kresal, who was considered part of the wealthy elite, tested herself for drugs. Tina Gaber’s diploma thesis alleges that Katarina Kresal regularly and massively consumed cocaine.
With the election of the Levica party to the National Assembly, the attitude towards drugs became even more relativised, as they openly lobbied for the legalisation of marijuana. Luka Mesec even admitted to occasionally smoking a joint. Videos have emerged showing unusual behaviour in the National Assembly and indications of cocaine use. There are even rumours that Mesec and his former partner, Manca G. Renko, used cocaine together at parties, with alleged footage of such events.
Because things have gone too far, the Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS) has repeatedly submitted a bill in the legislative process that would oblige officials – members of the National Assembly, the President of the Republic, the Prime Minister, ministers, and state secretaries – to undergo mandatory drug testing once a year. However, this bill has always been rejected by the left-wing parties. In SDS, all members of parliament even voluntarily underwent drug testing and proved their sobriety. Such courage has never been seen on the left, even though it would send a clear message to the citizens that they perform their duties diligently, consciously, and with quality. Above all, it would set an example for the younger generations.
