In his first statement following the release of exit polls reiterated his central message of unity. "We need trust, mutual respect, tolerance, readiness to listen. Irrespective of how big the differences among us may be, the things that connect us are even stronger," he said.
Türk conceded defeat and congratulated Pahor, but he refrained from analysing the reasons. There are "plenty of qualified people to make political assessments, analysis and polls...I have to be modest, I can't immodestly assess this election".
Türk said he would remain an "active citizen" after his term officially ends in three weeks. "I entered politics five years ago as an active citizen, one of those who care. My commitment remains unchanged," he said.
The turnout appears to be the lowest on record for a presidential election, well below the 48% in the first round, reiterating the apparent loss of trust in politicians that has been raised in a wave of anti-establishment protests currently sweeping across Slovenia.
Pahor said that trust in state institutions needed to be restored, arguing that the institutions needed to "earn this trust with hard work for the common good." Türk, meanwhile, said the turnout was a "cause of concern".
Source: SloveniaTimes
