30.06.2006

OHR BiH Media Round-up, 30/6/2006

Latest radio news broadcast at 12.00 on 30 June

RADIO HERCEG-BOSNA (12,00 hrs)

BH Radio 1 (12,00 hrs)

RTRS (12,00 hrs)

RHB employees in strike

Guide for Families of Missing

Restoration of facilities in Prijedor

 

Verdict to Oric today

RS Govt cancels Coll. Agreement

 

Project in Srebrenica

Bin Laden’s message

TV news broadcast on 29 June

RADIO HERCEG-BOSNA (18,00 hrs)

TV PINK (18,00 hrs)

BHT 1 (19,00 hrs)

RHB employees in strike

PACE adopts resolution on BIH

Major robbery in Sarajevo

 

Tadic visits BIH

CoE adopts Resolution on BiH

 

BIH PA delegates on defence law

Serbian President Tadic in Sarajevo

 

RS Government in session

HR Schwarz-Schilling in Potocari

 

NTV Hayat (19,00 hrs)

FTV  (19,30 hrs)

RTRS (19,30 hrs)

PACE Resolution passed

CoE adopts Resolution on BiH

Storm hit Western RS

RS opposes PACE Resolution

RS reactions on CoE Resolution

Armed robbery in Sarajevo

Serbian President in visit to SA

HR Schwarz-Schilling in Potocari

PACE adopts Resolution

Tadic meets Terzic

Serbian President Tadic in Sarajevo

Tadic visits BIH

 

Oslobodjenje

[PACE resolution] To abolish entity voting immediately – new Constitution by 2010

Dnevni Avaz

[PACE resolution] European NO to entity voting

Dnevni List

Tadic supports current borders

Vecernji List

B. Posavina region within BiH (Marko Tadic)

Slobodna Dalmacija

Sahara in Mostar [heat wave in Mostar]

Nezavisne Novine

Interest of Serbia is integral BiH

Glas Srpske

Dayton foundations undermined

EuroBlic

New threat to survival of RS’

Vecernje novosti

Serbian related

 

PACE Resolution and reactions

PACE passes resolution on BiH: urges new Constitution by 2010, abolishing entity vote, defining VNI, focus on citizens – Serb MPs strongly object it, Bosniak deem BiH is obligated to implement it 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FTV by Zeljko Tica – The Parliamentary Assembly of Council of Europe [PACE] in Strasbourg, passed the Resolution, recommending BiH to draft and adopt new Constitution by 2010. According to the Resolution, entity vote should be abolished, and vital national interest precisely defined, immediately after the October election. CoE also called upon BiH authorities to build more effective and centralised state system that would not be based on ethnic representation but on representation of citizens. FTV carries that 53 representatives in the CoE Parliamentary Assembly voted in favour of this Resolution, while 28 voted against it. The voting took place after CoE Parliamentary Assembly rejected the proposal of Serbian representative, who wanted to remove or change the Resolution. Serb members of BiH delegation to PACE on Wednesday requested withdrawal of this Resolution, deeming it is not in line with the Dayton Constitution. In a short telephone statement for FTV, Serb member of the BiH parliamentary delegation to PACE, Tihomir Gligoric, stressed the CoE recommendations would be almost impossible to implement in BiH “because in this way we are dividing BiH delegation while looking for allies in Belgrade or Moscow… The main deficiency of the Resolution is the fact that it cannot be implemented because of the radical recommendations that we haven’t heard in past 11 years of BIH political existence.” On other hand, Elmir Jahic, another member of the delegation, praises Resolution: “I think this is the victory of modern, European BiH… As a member state of a serious organisation – which Council of Europe certainly is – we are obligated to obey their decisions, including this Resolution ”. CoE also condemned recent calls on referendum for separation of RS from BiH. BHT1, RTRS– carried Jahic statement, PINK- carried Gligoric. Dnevni List, pg 5, mentioned on front ‘Resolution was ‘dictated’ by information from Sarajevo’, by Ljiljana Vidacak, Vecernji List, pg 3 ‘BiH must abolish entity voting’, by Dejan Jazvic, Vecernje Novosti pg 3 ‘They want to overthrow Srpska’ announced on cover ‘They are erasing the Dayton and Srpska’ by Goran Cvorovic, Glas Srpske cover pg splash ‘Dayton foundations undermined’ by Z.Markovic, EuroBlic cover pg splash and pgs RS2-RS3 ‘New threat to survival of RS’ by Mirna Soja – also reported. Note: Resolution also calls on review of territorial organization of the state and its division into entities, cantons and municipalities; assessment of ways to integration Brcko District; adoption of state law on higher education and state law on primary and secondary education; adoption of laws on public broadcasting service; implementation of the police and local government reforms; adoption of laws for protection of rights of minorities; establishment of the state level supreme court; full cooperation with the ICTY; population census latest by 2010 and establishment of the state truth and reconciliation commission.

PACE delegates: Serbs boycott reforms, BiH’s current structure not suitable for EU 

 

Dnevni Avaz cover splash, pg 3 ‘European NO to entity voting’ by Sead Numanovic, Strasbourg – Co-Creator of resolution on BiH, that was adopted by the Parliamentary Assembly of Council of Europe [PACE] on Thursday, Kimmo Sasi stated: “Serbs are boycotting the reform process. The only right way is to reroute the country from representing peoples to representing every of its individual.” PACE deputy Tony Lloyd supported the resolution on behalf of the socialist group: “Constitutional changes must continue, police reform must be implemented and Serbs must de-block it for the talks on Stabilisation and Association Agreement [SAA] could continue.” German representative Eduard Lintner, who spoke on behalf of European People’s Party [EPP] noted: “Actual structure is not suitable for BiH entering EU, therefore EPP strongly supports submitted documents.” Inset ‘Jahic better in lobbying than Ivica Dacic’ – Article carries that leader of the BiH delegation to PACE Elmir Jahic was better in lobbying than SPS representative Ivica Dacic who almost succeeded to postpone voting on the resolution. Glas Srpske pg 2 ‘Serious consequences’ – Daily reports that during discussion on proposed Resolution, some delegates at PACE Thursday warned that any change of DPA may have serious consequences. Namely, daily carries statements of Loyd, Head of British MP’s group, Renzo Gubert, Italian delegate, as being some of those. Oslobodjenje cover splash, pgs 4-5 ‘To abolish entity voting immediately – new Constitution by 2010’ by A.Omeragic – BiH deputy Ivo Lozancic proposed amendment to the resolution, which says that cantonal structure should be reexamined, but it was rejected.

Co-Creator of the PACE resolution Sasi: Dayton served its purpose, now it has to be moved on

Dnevni Avaz pg 2 ‘Dayton served its purpose, now it has to be moved on’ by S.N. – Co-Creator of the PACE resolution on BiH Kimmo Sasi told daily: “It is clear that BiH Constitution must be changed. Dayton served its purpose, now it has to be moved on. This means that BiH cannot allow High Representative and International Community [IC] make all important decisions instead BiH politicians.”

RS President Cavic: DPA brought us peace

 

RTRS – Talking about the Resolution on BiH adopted by the CoE Parliamentary Assembly’s resolution, the RS President Dragan Cavic informed Directors of Directorate for Eastern Europe and Balkans at French Ministry of Foreign Affairs that the Resolution is full of bad affects: “DPA has brought us the peace and the changes can only be reached in BIH and France strongly supports Euro-Atlantic integrations of BIH and it will support every agreement reached in BIH but also will oppose any agreement imposed from outside of BIH” said Cavic. Nezavisne Novine pg 2 ‘Resolution has divided political parties in BiH’ by N.N. –Cavicnoted “those living in illusion to break Dayton foundation – entities’ order – is making a fatal mistake…This Resolution is in the interest of disintegration rather than integration of BiH.” Glas Srpske pg 2 ‘Destruction of Dayton is not realistic’ by SRNA– In a phone statement to SRNA news agency, Cavic said that “French administration strongly supports change of the IC’s mandate.” He also said that the French officials stressed PACE Resolution should not be regarded as official stance of any European administration, but rather a recommendation. FTV, Dnevni List, pg 5 ‘Resolution abolishes entities’, not signed, Dnevni Avaz pg 4 ‘This is turning back to elements that led to war in BiH’ by Srna also reported.

PACE Resolution: RS PM says document could be fatal for BiH future; BiH HoR Deputy Speaker: This is most destructive doc for BiH

 

RTRS – The RS Prime Minister Milorad Dodik warned that the Resolution adopted by Parliamentary Assembly of the CoE represents an document which could be fatal for BiH‘s future. “If organisation of BIH based on DPA is abolished than the RS is entitled to a decision on whether to stay inside BiH or to go out of it. This seems to be inevitable in the future,” added Dodik. Deputy Speaker of BiH House of Representatives Nikola Spiric stated the situation would be much worse in case EU Parliament discusses this document. “This is the most destructive document for BIH; those who proposed it seem to me to be torch bearers standing at the gas station. This should be regarded by RS politicians as an attempt to pressurize them because of the forthcoming reforms” added Spiric. According to SDS deputy Chair Mladen Bosic, PACE’s voting on the Resolution is a result of preferences of Haris Silajdzic’s ideas within European circles and could encourage the radical ideas for constitutional changes. Chair of SP RS Petar Djokic stressed that Resolution cannot be abiding for any political body in BIH. “This is inappropriate act as the result of inappropriate lobbing and deserves to be condemned” added Djokic. BHT1- The RS officials, and officials from RS in joint institutions have already reacted to this… The very act [of Resolution] does not have an obligatory character for RS or BiH, but – unfortunately – certain political forces in BiH would certainly manipulate with the Resolution in the coming months, in an attempt to change the course of constitutional reforms”, said RS National Assembly Speaker Igor Radojicic. FTV, Dnevni Avaz pg 4 ‘Dodik: They pin it on a cat’s tail and carry it around Europe’ by Fena, Vecernje Novosti pg 3 ‘No abolition of entities’ by Sl. Pesevic carried Dodik, Nezavisne Novine pg 2 ‘Resolution has divided political parties in BiH’ by N.N. –Dodikadded: “Nobody can force RS people to accept Resolution. It is unserious act that would case serious consequences upon BiH.” Nezavisne Novine pg 2 ‘Resolution has divided political parties in BiH’ inset ‘Radojicic: Resolution is not mandatory’ – carries Radojicic, Glas Srpske pg 2 ‘Attack against entities’ – carries Cavic Hayat, EuroBlic cover pg splash and pgs RS2-RS3 ‘New threat to survival of RS’ by Mirna Soja – noted that RS officials object it. Dnevni List, pg 5 ‘Resolution abolishes entities’, not signed – carries Djokic. EuroBlic pg RS3 ‘Survey: how are politicians commenting on the Resolution of the Council of Europe’ not signed – SNSD’s Krstan Simic, SDS’s Mladen Bosic, SRS’s Milanko Mihajlica and Petar Djokic criticize the fact PACE Resolution was adopted.

BiH delegation members at PACE Milojevic and Gligoric explain Resolution has no binding role

 

Glas Srpske cover pg splash ‘Dayton foundations undermined’ inset ‘Advisory role’ by – Goran Milojevic and Tihomir Gligoric, members of BiH delegation at CoE,have explained that all documents enacted by Parliamentary Assembly of CoE are not legally binding and have mainly advisory. However, according to them, Resolution may serve for daily political purposes to those forces pledging for abolition of DPA and RS.  EuroBlic cover pg splash and pgs RS2-RS3 ‘New threat to survival of RS’ by Mirna Soja also carries.

Serbian officials strongly criticise resolution, not it is only recommendation 

 

Vecernje Novosti pg 3 ‘They do not have the strength’ by D. R., ‘Enough of concessions’ by P. V. and ‘Destroying’ by M. Z. R. – carry reactions of Dragoljub Micunovic (Chair of Political Council of Serbian Democratic Party), Dragoljub Kojcic (Chair of Political Council of DSS) and Tomislav Nikolic (President of Serbian SRS) respectively, who all strongly oppose the PACE Resolution. Micunovic believes the Resolution is only a recommendation, i.e. its provisions are not obligatory, while Nikolic says: ‘PACE Resolution is aimed against Serbia. Nikolic says it represents an open abolition of entities by Europe and adds they [Serbian politicians] can only fight for Serbian politicians on power to define what is their interest with regard to RS. Vecernje Novosti pg 3 ‘Only a recommendation’ by E. R.Radoslav Stojanovic, Serbian Ambassador to Holland, believes the Resolution is in violation with DPA provisions and says the Resolution has no legal effect, i.e. it is not obligatory.

Serbian’ Dacic: Serbia , as a guarantee of DPA, must most strongly react on this Resolution

 

Glas Srpske cover pg splash ‘Dayton foundations undermined’ inset ‘Serbia must react’ – Ivica Dacic, member of Serbian delegation at CoE Thursday gave a phone statement o daily, saying that PACE Resolution demands revision of Dayton, noting that Serbia, as a guarantee of DPA, must most strongly react on this Resolution. On Document, he notes: “The nature of documents is such that it will not cause legal consequences, but it may cause political consequences. Text of Resolution si completely unacceptable for Serbs in BiH, and mostly for Croats.”

PACE Resolution: Bosniak officials welcome the Resolution as friendly gesture; SDP sasy Resolution friendly

 

BHT1- I think that the Resolution [adopted by the COE Parliamentary Assembly] defines current situation in BiH in the right manner, and I think that it correctly marks out the path BiH should take in the future”, added SDA representative in the BiH Parliamentary Assembly Sefik Dzaferovic. EuroBlic pg RS3 ‘Survey: how are politicians commenting on the Resolution of the Council of Europe’ not signed – SDA’s Tarik Sadovic and SBiH’s Remzija Kadric see nothing disputable in the Resolution and welcome the adoption. SDP’s Tomislav Limov thinks the Resolution would change nothing.RTRS, Dnevni List, pg 5 ‘SDP supports Resolution’, not signed SDP considers the abolition of entity vote as friendly gesture expressing satisfaction with the resolution

Leader of the BiH delegation to PACE Jahic: Resolution is not against anyone

 

Dnevni Avaz pg 2 ‘Not any provision is against anyone’ by S.N. – Leader of the BiH delegation to PACE Elmir Jahic told DA that the PACE resolution is obligatory for BiH: “BiH put enormous efforts to become member of this team. Now when we are part of it, we obliged to respect decisions of this organ… Not any provision is against anyone. It helps BiH to be built as modern and European state.”

PACE Resolution: Bosniak Avdic says it is a base for the new Constitution

 

Hayat- In a phone statement member of BiH delegation, Sead Avdic said that the Resolution adopted by the CoE Parliamentary Assembly is the most important signed document after the Dayton peace Agreement. “This is the first time for a general Resolution, which identifies problems in BiH, especially in terms of BiH’s functioning, financial sustainability and political stability to be adopted…It was agreed that BiH had a untenable and expensive state system, which causes inner political instability which has to be overcome”, said Avdic and added that the Resolution was a authentic, true and objective document BiH has never had before. He also praised it urging constitutional-legal organization to be re-examined as well as entity and District Brcko’s organization. Avdic confirmed that the Resolution would be the basis on which new BiH Constitution would be built upon. PINK, Dnevni Avaz pg 2 ‘Lobbying from Belgrade did not pass’ by S.N., EuroBlic cover pg splash and pgs RS2-RS3 ‘New threat to survival of RS’ by Mirna Sojacarry similar Avdic statement.

SDU’s Durakovic: Europe comprehended current constitutional solutions are outdated

 

Dnevni Avaz pg 2 ‘Europe also comprehended current constitutional solutions are outdated’ by H.Orahovac – SDU’s Nijaz Durakovic stated that PACE resolution is the best satisfaction for all that opposed constitutional changes, adding: “It is good that Europe also comprehended current constitutional solutions, following which decisions in BiH House of Representatives are being adopted, are outdated.”

SBiH’s Halilovic: SBiH does not want to collect political points and stress we were ones who stood up for these stances

Dnevni Avaz pg 2 ‘Strong impulse for forces that are fighting for state of BiH’ by E.Sarac – Commenting PACE resolution SbiH Vice President Safet Halilovic told daily: “SbiH does not want to collect political points and stress the fact that we were the ones who stood for these stances in time when we were marked as ‘opponents of the reform’, but to underline once more that efforts on bringing new constitution should be intensified.”

PACE Resolution: HDZ see resolution as direction to be followed

 

RTRS- HDZ believes the Resolution passed by the CoE Parliamentary Assembly is the correction of DPA but fears that it could bring Croats in BH in the position of the minority. Croats consider two-entity organisation of BIH as unacceptable. BHT1- This Resolution… is a road sign what we should do in the future, in order to arrange things in our country in a better way, and as close to EU standards as possible”, concluded HDZ representative Velimir Jukic. Dnevni Avaz pg 4 ‘We were the first ones stressing we cannot enter EU with this Constitution’ by Srna – HDZ spokesperson Miso Relota commented that PACE resolution represents “correction of Dayton Agreement”, warning that there is a realistic threat for Croats to be reduced to the level of national minority. He reminded that HDZ was the first party stressing we cannot enter EU with this Constitution. EuroBlic pg RS3 ‘Survey: how are politicians commenting on the Resolution of the Council of Europe’ not signed – also carries Relota.

BH Amb. To CoE Maric: Resolution would be separately discussed after October elections

 

Nezavisne Novine pg 2 ‘New Constitution until 2010’ by P.Klincov – Daily carries statement of Borislav Maric, BiH Ambassador to CoE saying he could not predict what consequences the adopted Resolution may cause, adding Resolution would be separately discussed after October elections.  Nezavisne Novine pg 2 ‘New Constitution until 2010’ inset ‘Resolution’ – according to daily, Resolution strongly condemned recent statements from RS authorities demanding right to referendum secession, as we as refusal of Serb representative to take part in work of Police Reform Directorate.

RTRS comment on PACE resolution: All that is seen as malicious by Serb MPs is welcomed by Bosniaks

 

RTRS by Nada Arlov – RTRS report stresses that Parliamentary Assembly of Council of Europe [PACE] passed the Resolution despite strong opposition of Serb delegates of the BIH delegation and members of Serbian Delegation. Arlov notes that although the resolutions is not mandatory but presents only a political recommendation, the Resolution helps out those forces who have been trying to bring the talks ont eh constitutional changes to the very beginning. “I called on the delegates not to vote for the Resolution because of all the facts, inaccurate and arbitrary constructions, contradictions, and malicious intention. Apparently this is the abolition of Dayton Peace Agreement” said member of BIH delegation Goran Milojevic. Arlov stressed all that is seen as malicious by the Serb delegation, Bosniak part of BIH delegation deems it is friendly and well meant.

Osl op-ed: Europe sent out a clear message – wartime way of thinking should be left in past, attention should be paid to citizens’ interests

 

Oslobodjenje op-ed pg 9 ‘Wartime philosophy’ by Aldijana Omeragic – Referring to the adoption of PACE Resolution, Omeragic notes the opposing of Serb delegates is understandable if one knows the Resolution demands abolishment of entity voting immediately after the October elections are held. RS political representatives Dragan Cavic, Milorad Dodik and Mladen Ivanic received a clear message from Strasbourg: RS cannot be preserved under its name and with ‘political philosophy of its founders’. The three politicians have certainly helped Europe to form its stance since they have radicalized the pre-election rhetoric with statements on referendum and by undermining BiH lawsuit against SiCG by saying the process would have an influence on abolition of entities. Omeragic concludes by saying the Europe had not berated Serbs only, but it berated all others and sent out the message that it was time to leave ‘wartime way of thinking’ in past and devote to interests of citizens.

GS op-ed views Resolution as “gallows” for Serb necks

Glas Srpske pg 2 ‘Rope without a neck’ by Boro Maric – The author notes that the battle field for the re-structuring of BiH took place in Strasbourg Thursday, saying proposed Resolution equates with the document of the same title Rijaset Islamic Religious Community adopted at the end of March this year. The headlines was taken from the following context: “Judging by reactions by RS officials, it is evident thatrope at “gallows” intended for DPA will conditionally said lose Serb neck.”

 

Serbian President visits BiH

Serbian president Tadic visits Sarajevo : Integral BiH is Serbia ’s vital interest; Serbia opposes any changing of borders in the region

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BHT1 by Lejla Zvizdic – Serbian President Boris Tadic stated during his one-day visit to Sarajevo on Thursday that the preservation of BiH and her integrity is a vital interest of Serbia and that Serbia opposes changing borders in the entire region of South East Europe. “Today, I’m in Sarajevo, in which I was born – unlike the members of BiH Presidency,” Tadic said noting that there is nothing to be said for the initiative of the RS referendum as that was “practically impossible”. Tadic and BiH Presidency members also discussed war carimes. “That includes… unconditional cooperation with ICTY, but also processing of all persons responsible for war crimes. This is important, not only because of the past, truth and justice; this is important for our better future”, stressed BiH Presidency Chair Sulejman Tihic. On the issue of BiH lawsuit against Serbia and Montenegro for genocide, Tadic stressed this burdens relations between two countries, while Tihic once again rejected a possibility of any kind of political settlement on the issue. Serbian President once again denied allegations published in Sarajevo daily Dnevni Avaz that he talked about division of BiH with Croatian President Stjepan Mesic. Hayat-I do not want to draw any parallels between Kosovo and BiH since statuses of republics and regions have been clearly defined. My principle is not to question existence of the existing states”, Tadic said also welcoming stances of the BiH Presidency on Kosovo status [on 28 June BiH Presidency adopted the stance that the issue of Kosovo should be “solved trough dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina] FTV – Officials also discussed possibility of establishing special relations between BiH and Serbia. “We have confirmed yet again territorial integrity and sovereignty of our countries, within the internationally accepted borders. We have also underlined the importance of signing the agreement on borders as soon as possible”, stated Tihic. Dnevni Avaz pg 4 ‘Survival of remaining states shouldn’t be questioned’, mentioned on cover ‘Tadic: RS secession is practically impossible’ by T.Lazovic – Asked if he would change the stance on preservation of current borders if Kosovo would become independent, Tadic said that “he doesn’t even want to think about Kosovo independence”.  PINK, RTRS, Oslobodjenje pg 3 ‘No parallel between BiH and Kosovo’, mentioned on cover by M.Kavaz-Sirucic, Dnevni List cover splash ‘Tadic supports current borders’ pg 3 ‘Sarajevo born Tadic supports current borders’ by D. P. Mandic, Vecernji List pg ‘Boris Tadic: Referendum on RS secession impossible’ by Dejan Jazvic, Vecernje Novosti pg 4 ‘Borders are preserving the region’ by Dusan Stojakovic, Nezavisne Novine cover pg splash,pg 3 ‘Interest of Serbia is integral BiH’ by N.Krsman, Glas Srpske pg 5 ‘Balkans on the course of cooperation’ by V.Bugarin, EuroBlic pg 3 ‘Tadic: Separation of RS is not possible’ by D. D.  also reported.

Schwarz-Schilling meets RS President Tadic: Serbia would not interfere in police reform in BiH

 

Oslobodjenje pg 3 ‘Serbia would not interfere in BiH police reform’ by M.K.S. – Late on Thursday evening, Serbian President Boris Tadic met the High Representative Christian Schwarz-Schilling, after which only HR addressed the journalist and said that Tadic persuaded him that Serbia would not interfere in police reform in BiH: “Tadic said that he will try to increase cooperation with BiH, and not only one of its parts and he promised, very persuadably that Serbia will not be part of the problem in police reform in BiH.” Tadic informed HR that media writings on his alleged statements on new division between Croatia and Serbia are a clear nonsense. “He clearly said that interest of Serbia is existence of BiH without divisions and referendum with necessary constitutional changes, which would make it more functional,” said HR. Schwarz-Schilling informed Tadic about the stances of the Peace Implementation Council and the EU that Serbia has to use more mechanisms in order for Radovan Karadzic and Ratko Mladic to be extradited to the Hague. Dnevni Avaz pg 4 ‘Survival of remaining states shouldn’t be questioned’, mentioned on cover ‘Tadic: RS secession is practically impossible’ by T.Lazovic, Inset ‘Serbia will not interfere in police reform’,Nezavisne Novine cover pg splash, pg 3 ‘Interest of Serbia is integral BiH’ inset ‘Talks on police reform’ – also reported.

Tadic meets CoM Chair Terzic: improvement of economic cooperation priority

Hayat- Serbian President, Boris Tadic, met with the BiH Council of Ministers Chair, Adnan Terzic, as well as BiH Parliament representatives. They discussed economic issues, ways of improving economic cooperation, joint interests in terms of the EU, etc. Tadic also paid a visit to the Serbian Embassy to BiH. FTV- also reported.

Dani: DA writing serves the purpose of launching the Silajdzic’s campaign

 

Dani ‘Pure Avaz-ism’ op-ed by Vildana Selimbegovic – Author slams ‘Dnevni Avaz’ for “obvious support” it gives to SBiH and its leader Haris Silajdzic, stressing that all its writings [such as “fabrication” DA published on June 28 claiming that Serbian and Croatian Presidents Boris Tadic and Stjepan Mesic respectively were discussing division of BiH] serves the purpose of “launching of Silajdzic’s pre-election campaign”.

SB: Trough Avaz, SBiH leader Silajdzic desires for dictatorships in neighbouring countries in order to get an alibi for his own despotism

 

Slobodna Bosna pgs 4-5 ‘Who had set quarrel among us again’ op-ed by Editor in Chief, Senad Avdic – Condemning daily [Dnevni Avaz] which alleged that Serbian President Boris Tadic and Croatian President Stjepan Mesic were discussing division of BiH, editorial reads: “Daily that placed such lie is totally insignificant, political ambient that gave birth to such lie with potentially dangerous consequences is only that matters.” Pointing at SbiH leader Haris Silajdzic, and implying his good relations with Avaz, Avdic slams “politicians that do not understand Bosnian processes… desiring for dictatorships and absolutism in both Croatia and Serbia in order to get an alibi for its own absolutism and despotism.

 

Other political issues

HR Schwarz-Schilling visits Srebrenica: Srebrenica is one country’s priorities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FTV by Salih Brkic – On Thursday, the HR Christian Schwarz-Schilling visited Memorial Centre Potocari paying respects to Srebrenica victims. He also held meetings with the representatives of various associations of Srebrenica victims, municipal, entity and state authorities, and representatives of Memorial Centre Potocari Foundation. They agreed to create an action plan of reconstruction of Srebrenica, which should be fully implemented by the end of 2010. “Srebrenica is, and it should be, one of this country’s top priorities. Having that in mind, it is of a great importance to take special measures so that Srebrenica has a special treatment in order to solve further problems”, stated HR. Srebrenica Municipal Head Abdurahman Malkic welcomed this idea, Deputy BiH Minister of Human Rights and Refugees Ivica Marinovic stated that Srebrenica needs to have a special economic status in BiH, similar to the one Vukovar has in Croatia. FTV reporter underlined the importance of transformation of Memorial Centre Potocari Foundation, “from NGO founded by the OHR in BiH, into the institution founded by the state of BiH.” In case of problems “which is not exactly unusual in BiH, HR will intervene”, explained Foundation Chair Beriz Belkic. HR said he would not be able to attend the commemoration to Srebrenica victims on July 11 in Potocari, as he would be absent from BiH. Hayat,Dnevni Avaz pg 9 ‘This is a terrible failure of all democratic countries’, mentioned on cover ‘Everyone has to learn a lesson in Srebrenica’ by E.H. – Schwarz-Schilling said that everyone can come to Srebrenica to learn a lesson that we have to fight evil and against people who are committing such massacres. Saying that he will insist on fight against genocide, Schwarz-Schilling noted: “It has not been done here in Srebrenica and that is a terrible failure of all democratic countries”.  RTRS – Meanwhile, Regional Association of Serb refugees from Zenica have organized protest in front of OHR in Bratunac because of the discriminatory attitude of FBIH and Zenica-Doboj Authorities respectively toward the return and reconstruction of war-destroyed property for Serbs. PINK, BHT1, Vecernji List, pg 2 ‘Schilling pays respect to Srebrenica victims’, by ra, Dnevni List, pg 8 ‘Fight against evil’, not signed, Nezavisne Novine pg 8 ‘Srebrenica as priority’ by V.Ra., EuroBlic pg RS2 ‘Schwarz-Schilling: everyone before the Court’ not signedreported on visit.

HR CSS: Action plan for Srebrenica to be prepared by August 1, 2006

Dnevni Avaz, pg 9 ‘Schwarz-Schilling: Srebrenica has to be state’s priority’, by E. Huremovic – Regarding the adoption of the action plan for Srebrenica, Avaz carries the HR as saying that such plan should be prepared by August 1, the plan that should include concrete measures that need to be carried out by end of 2006 and devise measures for the period between 2007 and 2010.

SDA Srebrenica worried by agitating messages from RTRS

 

Oslobodjenje pg 2 ‘Special status should be given to Srebrenica’ by S.Smajlovic – Inset ‘Threat to families of victims’ – SDA Srebrenica has expressed concerns because of Head of Zvornik Veterans Association’s statements, who was a guest in RTRS and “Sent a direct threat to families of genocide victims’ families, who announced their arrival to commemoration and funeral of Srebrenica genocide victims on July 11”.  SDA Srebrenica claims that these statements were supported by political subjects and they invited CRA to review the “disputable report” from RTRS and “protect citizens from such concept and program broadcasting”. Dnevni Avaz pg 9 ‘Worried by agitating messages from RTRS’ by Fena – also covered.

US’ Amb. McElchany: Support to BiH politicians accepting responsibility

 

Nezavisne Novine pg 6 ‘Douglas McElhaney: Support to BiH politicians who accept responsibility’ by G.G.- In an interview to the ‘Voice of America’, US Ambassador to BiH Douglas McElhaney expressed his support to BiH politicians who want to take over responsibility and political decisions from the High Representative to BiH, adding that in last few years High Representatives were reaching less while BiH politicians were reaching more decisions. McElhaney said that it is time to reduce presence of the international community and US and maybe close OHR in BiH, noting that EUSR would remain in BiH. He also said that BiH politicians should discuss constitutional changes one more time after the elections.

VL interview with HSS President Marko Tadic: BiH still needs High Rep. with Bonn powers; High Rep. should show Dodik RS cannot part with BiH

 

Vecernji List cover pg splash ‘Bosanska Posavina region within BiH’ & pg 6 ‘It is time Schilling showed his resolve’ by Miroslav Vasilj – VL runs an interview with Marko Tadic, President of HSS, in which he talks about the HSS’s Declaration on Bosanska Posavina according to which Posavina should be a single historic, geographical, economic and administrative area which (Declaration) has been signed by hundreds of Croats. Tadic says signing of the Declaration is by no means a referendum on secession of Posavina from RS. Asked how RS PM Milorad Dodik’s separatist aspirations should be dealt with, Tadic answers that it is time for the High Representative Christian Schwarz-Schilling to show his resolve and prove that RS cannot become part of Serbia and that RS is in no way tied to Kosovo. Tadic believes that BiH still needs the High Representative with all his Bonn powers. Tadic thinks that the Croat BiH Presidency members will be a member of the Croat Unity coalition (HSS member) and that there is no way Bosniaks are going to elect the Croat Presidency member.

VL: PIC tasked BiH authorities with many tasks until October elections

 

Vecernji List, pg 4 ‘More tasks in three months than in three years’, by Dejan Jazvic – VL comments that the recent decision of the PIC to close down the OHR in June 2007 has overshadowed other messages and tasks the PIC has sent to the BiH authorities. Namely, VL reminds that the PIC has tasked the BiH authorities to carry out necessary changes before the October elections in the field of education, establishment of banking supervision at state level, enactment of state law on medicines etc. Furthermore, VL notes that the PIC especially wants to see progress in reforms to the police and public broadcasting system, whilst the list of tasks also include cooperation with the ICTY, reform processes in Mostar and many more.

SB: EU Special Representative and EC Delegation to BiH to be merged

 

Slobodna Bosna pgs 6-9 ‘EU intends to adopt Macedonian model in BiH’, mentioned on cover ‘Who will rule BiH after closure of OHR’ by Danka Savic – Commenting announced closure of OHR, daily carries that, following Peace Implementation Council [PIC] recommendations, one of options for EU presence in BiH is ‘Macedonian model’, by which offices of EU Special Representative and EC Delegation to BiH will be merged into one. Author adds it is expected for the current HR Christian Schwarz-Schilling to become the first man of EU in BiH, noting Germany would strongly support this solution during its EU presidency [first six months of 2007]. Article also stresses that some PIC members [Turkey and France] demanded re-examination of the decision to close OHR in June 2007. Refering to the reactions of RS politicians to PIC decision, SB carries statement of an unnamed foreign official: “Serb politicians are very naïve if they think that closing OHR would make their way to secession of RS or something similar. Demands put before them will remain, and in that sense nothing would change, with or without OHR.

Dani: It is hard to say what is worse for BiH: decision to close OHR or its timing?; Possibility of “spilling blood” and new war in BiH is real

 

Dani cover splash ‘BiH without OHR’, pgs 18-19 ‘Beginning of new war?’ by Editor in Chief, Senad Pecanin – Commenting decision of Peace Implementation Council [PIC] on OHR closure, author stresses that it is hard to say what is worse for BiH: decision alone or timing. Article notes it won’t be long before every political disagreement will be used for blockade of all BiH institutions, adding that unlike in 1992, Serb authorities now have something “to start with” since all authorities transferred to BiH level can be returned to the RS by a simple decision of the RS National Assembly. Pecanin anticipates that “blood spilling” would start very soon adding the first victims would be “Bosniak returnees in the RS”, while the restoration of the “real war” would commence in the Brcko District, which RS would “certainly try to annex”. Article also reads the war could be avoided, which is realistic as much as the possibility that Bosniaks would accept all what they hadn’t in 1992 [indirectly refers to division of BiH]. According to Pecanin this scenario is much more possible then one in which RS politicians would start acting constructively in position in which “High Representative, with all his authorities for replacement of officials and imposing of the laws, is not standing above their political faiths”. Author underlines that threats of RS Prime Minister Milorad Dodik [for secession of RS] would be supported by Serbian forces, while EU is too weak to deal with the issue and the USA is engaged in Iraq and Afghanistan. Pecanin concludes that both Dodik, with his threats, and PIC, with its decision to close OHR, succeeded to bring BiH back to 1992. [Note: Please note that the cover splash carries the picture of Dodik and SBiH leader Haris Silajdzic in war uniforms of RS and BiH Armies respectively].

MPs Novakovic and Siljegovic propose amendments to BiH Defence Law, foreseeing regulation of status of civil servants in entity’ ministries

 

PINK by Aida Hasanbegovic – MPs in BIH Parliamentary Assembly Momcilo Novakovic and Bosko Siljegovic together proposed amendments to the BIH Defence Law which would regulate the status of civil servants employed in Entity Defence Ministries. Because of the defence reform, more than 1000 people employed in former Entity Defence ministers will not have further employment. “In this way we proposed the early retirement for 821 persons which was implemented in the case of the Army officers” said Novakovic. Siljegovic stated that this was their moral obligation to help civil servants urging the adoption of this amendment in the urgent procedure. Hayat, BHT1, FTV, RTRS, Dnevni List, pg 2 ‘Civilians become soldiers because of pensions’, by Erna Mackic, Vecernji List, pg 2 ‘Early retirement for 820 civilians’, by Eldina Medunjanin, Nezavisne Novine pg 9 ‘Those sacked to get pre-retirement pension’ by M.C. reported.

SB: SNSD-PDP coalition to put PDP leader Ivanic as candidate for BiH CoM Chair

 

Slobodna Bosna pg 16 ‘Instead of Milorad Dodik, SNSD and PDP coalition intends to send Mladen Ivanic in Sarajevo’ by M.A. – SB learns from sources close to SNSD leadership that SNSD leader Milorad Dodik definitely quit idea putting his candidacy for BiH Council of Ministers Chair, due to the unsolved issues in the RS [privatization of RS Telecom and Brod Refinery]. Author adds that Dodik would pass this position to PDP leader Mladen Ivanic.

BiH SDP denies claims of DA: it is not true Bogicevic and Skenderagic asked to be removed from SDP’s list of candidates

 

Oslobodjenje pg 4 ‘Incorrect claims on Bogicevic and Skenderagic’ not signed – BiH SDP denied claims of Dnevni Avaz that Bogic Bogicevic and Nijaz Skenderagic have asked from SDP top officials to remove them from lists of candidates for the forthcoming elections [See OHR BiH Media Round-up, June 29]. BiH SDP explained Skenderagic had been a candidate for the list for F BiH House of Representatives and the Main Board of SDP BiH unanimously adopted this nomination on June 24, while Bogicevic could not have accepted to be nominated for any of the positions doe to his personal reasons and business plans but he expressed his readiness to support the party at the elections as a member.

Sarajevo University Rector Muratovic: It is sad that we still do not have Law on Higher Education

Dnevni Avaz pg 5, mentioned on cover ‘It is sad that we still do not have Law on Higher Education’ by Anila Gajevic – Commenting situation in higher education in BiH, in an interview for daily, Sarajevo University Rector Hasan Muratovic stated that it is shameful that the Law on Higher Education is still not adopted: “We are the only [state] in Europe that has no such law, and it could be adopted long time ago.

 

Security, war crimes and judiciary

Another incident in Mostar; member of Veterans Association attacked trying to pay respect to their fallen comrades

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FTV by Anita Damjanovic – One person has been injured in an incident that occurred in Mostar suburban area of Potoci, when members of [Bosniak]) Veterans’ Association visited the location on which they plan to place a commemorative plaque for 12 fallen BiH Army soldiers. The owner of the land on which those soldiers were killed, Mile Sesar, expressed his discontent and attacked them. Spokesperson for the Herzegovina-Neretva Cantonal Interior Ministry, Srecko Bosnjak stressed that few days earlier Sesar informed police he would not allow commemorative plaque to be placed on his land. According to Bosnjak, veterans would not give on their intention either. “However, simple announcement does not mean that all the necessary preparations – in line with the law – have been carried out… Police is not the institution that can give permit for placing of the commemorative plaque”, concluded Bosnjak. Representatives of Mostar City Administration confirmed that Veterans’ Association did not submit all the necessary documentation. Zijad Music, President of Veterans’ Association, said that they only wanted to pay respect to their fallen fellow soldiers. BHT1, Hayat, Dnevni Avaz pg 13 ‘Attacked Secretary of Veterans Association Edin Sefic attacked’ by F.Vele, Dnevni List pg 11 mentioned on cover ‘Mass fight between Croats and Bosniaks narrowly avoided’ by Sanja Bjelica, Vecernji List ‘pg 3 ‘Incident: Invalid attacked because of a “sehid”’, mentioned on cover “Invalids in fight’ by Robert Soldo  also carried.

DL claims FBiH Justice Minister Kristo wants to save Dragan Covic from prison by trying to have unconstitutional Law on pardon adopted

 

Dnevni List pg 7 mentioned on cover pg ‘Minister Kristo saves Covic from prison’ by Mensud Zorlak – DL writes about the recent adoption of the FBiH Law on pardon by the FBiH Parliament. The first version of the Law, proposed by FBiH Justice minister Borjana Kristo, was rejected, the subsequent proposal by head of SDA caucus Semsudin Mehmedovic was expected to be in line with the state law but that did not happen which goes to prove how close HDZ BiH and SDA are when something needs to be done that is contrary to the Constitution. DL claims that the reason Kristo drafted the Law in the way she did was that she wanted to give the opportunity to FBiH President Niko Lozancic to pardon and save from prison Dragan Covic, HDZ BiH President, in case he (Covic) is found guilty by the BiH State Court. Due to OHR objections, the parliamentary committee for implementation and public discussion found that the relevant article of the Law does not violate the FBiH Constitution which means that Lozancic will have a chance to pardon his party boss Covic as well as Miroslav Prce. ‘Why not? Everything is possible in this country’ – reads the article.

Interview with RS Pol. Director: Police will resolve murder cases in E. Sarajavo

 

Nezavisne Novine pg 4 ‘We will clear up unsolved murders in East Sarajevo’ by G. Maunaga –  In a half-page interview to daily, Uros Pena, RS Police Director said that Police Reform Directorate (PRD) is not structured well and PRD members interfere in the areas that are not in the PRD competence. Pena believes that the way of voting in PRD is not good, adding police reform is a political issue. Pena noted he would respect decisions and recommendations of the RS NA, expressing belief that one police structure could be established. On allegations regarding investigation against Dragomir Andan, his predecessor, Pena said that he doubts that there is any kind of investigation against Andan. On murders in East Sarajevo , Pena said that BiH Prosecution, SIPA and RS Police Special Investigation Unit are involved in these cases, adding that he would do everything to clear up these murders.

BiH Justice Ministry awaits to receive extradition document for Gojko Klickovic from Sokolac Court : BiH Justice Ministry will send extradition demand to Serbian Ministry in time

 

Oslobodjenje pg 6 ‘Extradition depends on the Court in Sokolac?’ by E. Kamenica – Assistant to the Minister of Justice for international legal help Nikola Sladoja confirmed on Thursday BiH Justice Ministry received the official notification on the arrest of former RS PM Gojko Klickovic on Tuesday and forwarded the notification to Sokolac Basic Court. Sladoje added Sokolac Court had declared Klickovic a wanted person and the Ministry is now expecting to receive so-called extradition documents form the Court and said there is no fear with regard to whether BiH Ministry of Justice would forward the extradition demand to Serbian Justice Ministry in time. The European Conventions foresee the deadline of 18 days for the procedure, but the deadline may be extended up to 40 days if necessary.