Mato Franković under 24-hour police protection, intelligence circles are finding out who is threatening him

The mayor of Dubrovnik, Mato Franković, has once again been placed under police protection, according to local media reports. The decision was made based on an assessment by police authorities, who determined that the measure was necessary. This follows a similar arrangement last year, during which Franković voluntarily withdrew his request for protection after several weeks. Now, with new concerns raised, the police have reinstated the measures. The timing of this renewed security comes amid ongoing discussions over a proposed new General Urban Planning Plan (GUP) for the city. The draft document is considered significantly more restrictive than previous versions, sparking tensions among various stakeholders. Real estate and land use remain central issues in the planning process, as they are viewed as some of the city’s most valuable resources. As such, the debate over the GUP has become a focal point for competing interests within the community. Franković, known for his outspoken stance, had previously announced that he would address topics long avoided in public discourse during his third term as mayor. He criticized the silence surrounding certain matters, particularly those involving influential figures. “I’ve decided I will speak more openly about issues that have been kept quiet for decades,” he stated. “Some were considered powerful, respected, and seated in the first row of the church. I will no longer stay silent. God help us, and to the emperor, his crown.” The mayor's willingness to challenge established norms has drawn both support and criticism. Some residents appreciate his transparency, while others argue that his approach could complicate efforts to reach consensus on complex urban development projects. The GUP, which aims to regulate land use and building permits, has already sparked legal challenges and political maneuvering. With the mayor now under police protection, questions remain about whether this marks a shift in the dynamics of local governance. Local officials and urban planners have expressed concern over the potential impact of the new GUP on Dubrovnik’s historic character. The city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, faces the delicate balance of preserving its cultural heritage while accommodating modern growth. The proposed changes include stricter regulations on construction and land allocation, which some fear could limit economic opportunities for residents. Others believe these measures are essential to ensure sustainable development and prevent uncontrolled expansion. Legal experts suggest that the mayor’s recent actions may reflect broader tensions within the administration. While the police have confirmed the necessity of the protection, the exact reasons remain unclear. Some speculate that the move relates directly to the GUP controversy, while others believe it reflects growing pressure from external forces. Regardless of the cause, the situation underscores the increasing complexity of managing a city that is both historically rich and economically dynamic. As the debate over the GUP continues, the role of the mayor remains pivotal. His decisions will shape the future of Dubrovnik’s urban landscape, influencing everything from property rights to tourism. With the police protection in place, the focus is shifting toward how the mayor will navigate these challenges while maintaining public trust. For now, the city watches closely, aware that the outcome of this dispute could have lasting implications for its identity and development.