Slovak Culture Minister Martina Šimkovičová returned to Východná, a year after being booed by a crowd during a prior visit. She arrived with a substantial motorcade of eleven vehicles and quickly retreated to the VIP area, avoiding public appearances. Despite previously stating her intention to attend the festival regardless of potential negative reactions, her detailed program remained undisclosed. This visit follows a controversial incident where she was publicly jeered at the same location. The minister’s swift movement to the VIP zone suggests an effort to circumvent a possible repeat of the hostile reception. Video footage of the arrival has surfaced, fueling discussion about the event. This return and subsequent actions have drawn attention to ongoing tensions between the minister and portions of the public.