Slovak Actors and Comedians Return to Political Activism After 25-Year Hiatus

Prominent Slovak actors and comedians, including the comedy duo Noga & Skrúcaný, have announced their return to political activism, admitting they mistakenly believed their civic duty was complete after helping end Vladimir Mečiar's rule in 1998. During the 1990s, these entertainers were banned from state television and radio under Mečiar's authoritarian government and responded by touring the country to expose government scandals and mobilize voters. Their campaign contributed to Mečiar's electoral defeat in the fall 1998 elections, which kept Slovakia from remaining isolated in Europe. The group, which also included respected actors Ladislav Chudík, Milan Lasica, Marián Labuda, and Jaro Filip, had stepped back from political involvement after 1998, believing their work was done. Now they acknowledge this was a mistake and are re-engaging in civic activism, though the article does not specify what current political developments have prompted their return.