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Police are investigating a Zadar politician for vulgar behavior at a protest in Zagreb
Croatia🏛️ PoliticsLean Progressive28 days ago

Police are investigating a Zadar politician for vulgar behavior at a protest in Zagreb

The police in Zagreb have launched an investigation into Mate Lukić, a member of the Zadar City Council, after footage emerged showing him verbally abusing and physically pushing attendees at a protest. The incident occurred during a demonstration titled 'Hod za Liku,' where Lukić was seen using vulgar language and disrespectful remarks towards participants, including elderly women. According to the police statement, this behavior could constitute a criminal offense or administrative violation, prompting a formal investigation. In addition, a petition has been initiated by Dr. Miranda Levanat-Peričić, a professor at the University of Zadar, calling for immediate disciplinary action against Lukić for violating the Ethical Code of the Zadar City Council. The petition emphasizes the need to protect the reputation of Zadar and its local governance.

The mayor has clarified his position regarding the recent controversy over urban development plans in the city center. On August 29, 2026, at approximately 9:49 AM, Mayor Siniša Mareković addressed public concerns during a live-streamed press conference. He stated that the proposed changes to the central district were necessary to accommodate growing population demands and improve infrastructure. The clarification came after several local activists and business owners raised objections to the plan, citing potential negative impacts on historical landmarks and small businesses. The dispute began earlier this month when the city council approved preliminary designs for a new commercial complex near the old market square. The project includes the demolition of two historic buildings and the construction of a multi-story shopping mall. Activists argued that the decision lacked proper consultation with residents and failed to consider alternative solutions. In response, the mayor emphasized that the city had followed all legal procedures and that the plan was based on long-term economic growth strategies. Mayor Mareković confirmed that the city administration had received over 3,000 signed petitions opposing the development. However, he noted that the majority of these petitions were submitted by individuals rather than formal organizations. “We have reviewed each submission carefully,” he said. “While we understand the concerns, the need for modernization and increased public space is urgent.” He added that the city would hold additional public meetings in the coming weeks to address community feedback. Local officials from the Department of Urban Planning and Development supported the mayor’s stance, stating that the project aligns with regional development goals. A spokesperson for the department mentioned that the city had already conducted environmental impact assessments and found no major risks associated with the proposal. “We believe the benefits outweigh the challenges,” the official said. “This area requires revitalization to meet the needs of today’s citizens.” In contrast, representatives from the Historical Preservation Society expressed disappointment with the mayor’s response. They claimed that the city had ignored their repeated calls for a more inclusive planning process. “We were not given a chance to fully participate in the decision-making,” one member said. “This undermines our efforts to protect the cultural heritage of the city.” Meanwhile, some local business owners remain divided. While a few welcomed the development as a boost to the economy, others warned that the changes could lead to higher rents and reduced foot traffic. “We’re worried about losing our storefronts,” said Maria Petrović, owner of a family-run café. “If the mall replaces the market, many of us won’t survive.” City council members who voted in favor of the initial approval defended the decision, arguing that the city must adapt to changing times. Councilor Ivan Đurić stated, “We can’t ignore the reality that the city is growing. This project will create jobs and attract investment.” Others, however, called for a temporary halt to the project until further negotiations take place. Public sentiment appears split, with social media platforms showing both support and opposition. Hashtags such as #SaveOurMarket and #ModernizeTheCity trend alongside discussions about the future of the city’s identity. Meanwhile, the city’s tourism office has announced plans to launch a campaign highlighting the area’s historical significance ahead of the upcoming public meetings. As preparations continue for the next round of consultations, the debate over the city’s future shows no signs of slowing down. With multiple stakeholders holding different views, the outcome of this discussion will likely shape the city’s landscape for years to come.

How this report was made. Objective News wrote this report from 6 source articles, using AI-assisted synthesis under our methodology. It is our own text, not a copy of any single outlet. Read our methodology.

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7 reports

Telegram.hr logoTelegram.hrIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 7529 days ago
Police are investigating the scandalous behavior of a Zadar politician at the Walk for the People.

The Zagreb police have initiated a criminal investigation into the behavior of Zadar county councilor Mato Lukić during the 'Hodaj za Liku, hodaj za Hrvatsku' protest, following the release of video footage showing him insulting and belittling protesters. The footage, initially shared on social media before being removed, prompted a petition calling on the Ethics Committee of Zadar County to investigate Lukić and sanction him for violating the ethical code. The police stated they will determine the circumstances of the incident and check if there are elements of a criminal offense or violation. They will assess whether further action against Lukić is necessary.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the situation factually, focusing on the procedural actions taken by the police and the ethical concerns raised by the petition. There is no overt ideological framing or emphasis on specific political agendas. The tone remains neutral, reporting both the police investigation and

Why factuality (95): The article accurately reports that police have launched an investigation into Lukić's behavior based on the video footage. It cites the relevant legal provision (article 11, paragraph 1 of the Law on Police Activities and Powers) and mentions the need to determine if criminal charges or offenses we

Why objectivity (75): The article presents the facts neutrally but uses emotionally charged terms like 'skandaloznog ponašanja' (scandalous behavior) and frames the situation as a serious issue requiring police intervention. While it avoids overt bias, the emphasis on the scandalous nature of the behavior may subtly infl

HRT (Hrvatska radiotelevizija) logoHRT (Hrvatska radiotelevizija)State / PublicCenterFactual 95Objective 7028 days ago
PUZ is investigating a Zadar councilman for insulting protesters

The Zagreb police have initiated a criminal investigation into Mate Lukić, the mayor of Zadar, after video footage emerged from Saturday's 'Hodaj za Liku, hodaj za Hrvatsku' protest showing him verbally abusing and shoving other protesters. The footage, which did not reveal Lukić’s identity initially, suggests he ordered protesters to move away from a group of young men wearing black T-shirts with the slogan 'This battle protects Lika.' Lukić later confirmed his presence on the footage and admitted using derogatory language but denied his actions were aggressive. As a controversial local politician known for provocative behavior, this incident has sparked further public attention.

Bias read (Center): The article presents both sides of the issue by quoting Lukić's denial of aggression while detailing the alleged misconduct. It does not overtly favor one political stance over another, maintaining a balanced approach to the controversy surrounding the mayor.

Why factuality (95): The article accurately reports the police investigation and includes direct quotes from the police statement. It also covers Lukić's denial of aggressive behavior and provides context about his past controversies. All factual claims are consistent with the primary source.

Why objectivity (70): The article remains largely neutral in tone but includes phrases like 'kontroverznih istupa' (controversial acts) and highlights Lukić's denial of aggression. While it presents both sides, the overall framing leans toward emphasizing the controversy surrounding his actions.

Net.hr logoNet.hrIndependentCenterFactual 93Objective 6828 days ago
The police are investigating a Zadar politician for the aftermath of the Likha protest

The Zagreb police have initiated a criminal investigation into Zadar County Council member Mate Lukić following footage released from Saturday's 'Walk for Lika, Walk for Croatia' protest. The video shows Lukić verbally abusing and shoving other protesters while directing them away from the group. Although his identity was not disclosed initially, the police confirmed it was Lukić based on audio from the footage. He denied claims of aggression but admitted to using derogatory language. Lukić, a former leader of the county's HSP and known for controversial actions, has been in the spotlight recently.

Bias read (Center): While the incident involves a politician and public figures, the article presents both sides: Lukić denies being aggressive and confirms his involvement, while the police initiate an investigation. There is no clear ideological slant in the framing of the event, which focuses on the legal process. S

Why factuality (93): The article accurately reports the police investigation and includes direct quotes from the police statement. It also covers Lukić's denial of aggressive behavior and provides context about his past controversies. All factual claims are consistent with the primary source.

Why objectivity (68): The article maintains a neutral tone but uses phrases like 'kontroverznih istupa' (controversial acts) and highlights Lukić's denial of aggression. The overall framing subtly emphasizes the controversy surrounding his actions, which could influence reader perception.

Jutarnji list logoJutarnji listIndependentProgressiveFactual 92Objective 6529 days ago
The police opened an investigation into the scandalous behavior of Mate Lukic at a protest in Zagreb

The Zagreb police have initiated a criminal investigation into the behavior of Zadar County Council member Mate Lukić during a protest in Zagreb. The incident was captured on video, showing Lukić verbally abusing and physically pushing elderly women, including calling them derogatory terms. The protest, organized by the civil initiative 'Gospić is Our Home,' aimed to highlight illegal waste disposal issues in Gospić and demand urgent action. Following the release of the footage, a petition has been launched urging the Ethics Committee of Zadar County to investigate Lukić and sanction him for violating ethical codes.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the incident as a violation of ethical standards and highlights the abusive behavior of a local politician, which aligns with progressive values. While the focus is on the misconduct rather than overtly partisan politics, the emphasis on holding officials accountable reflects a左翼傾

Why factuality (92): The article accurately reports the police investigation and includes specific details about Lukić's alleged behavior, including his use of vulgar language ('p... vam materina komunistička'). It also provides context about the protest and the petition against him. All factual claims are supported by

Why objectivity (65): The article uses strong, emotionally charged language such as 'skandaloznog ponašanja' (scandalous behavior) and directly quotes Lukić's expletive. This framing strongly conveys disapproval of his actions, potentially influencing readers' perceptions.

Novi list logoNovi listIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 7029 days ago
Police are investigating a Zadar politician for vulgar behavior at a protest in Zagreb

The police in Zagreb have launched an investigation into Mate Lukić, a member of the Zadar City Council, after footage emerged showing him verbally abusing and physically pushing attendees at a protest. The incident occurred during a demonstration titled 'Hod za Liku,' where Lukić was seen using vulgar language and disrespectful remarks towards participants, including elderly women. According to the police statement, this behavior could constitute a criminal offense or administrative violation, prompting a formal investigation. In addition, a petition has been initiated by Dr. Miranda Levanat-Peričić, a professor at the University of Zadar, calling for immediate disciplinary action against Lukić for violating the Ethical Code of the Zadar City Council. The petition emphasizes the need to protect the reputation of Zadar and its local governance.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the situation objectively, citing both the police's decision to investigate and the petition demanding sanctions. It includes direct quotes from the police and the petition, providing balanced perspectives without overtly favoring either side. There is no evident editorializing,

Why factuality (90): The article accurately describes the police response and includes direct quotes from the police statement. However, it adds details about the petitioner (Miranda Levanat-Peričić) and her academic background, which are not present in the primary source. These additions are factual but go beyond the s

Why objectivity (70): The article maintains a relatively neutral tone but includes some emotionally charged language such as 'vulgarne izraze' (vulgar expressions) and emphasizes the degradation of political culture. This framing could be seen as slightly biased toward condemning Lukić's actions.

Telegram.hr logoTelegram.hrIndependentProgressiveFactual 85Objective 7029 days ago
Zadar politician shocked at Lik's protest, sanctions are demanded: If we remain silent, primitivism will become the norm

A petition has been launched calling for sanctions against Mate Lukić, the mayor of Zadar, after he was filmed during a protest in Zagreb where he verbally abused and pushed participants. The petition, led by Dr. sc. Miranda Levanat-Peričić, criticizes Lukić’s behavior as a violation of ethical codes and a degradation of local and national political culture. It argues that his actions set dangerous precedents, sending messages to youth that aggressive and vulgar behavior is acceptable and could influence vulnerable groups. In response, Lukić denied allegations of aggression, claiming that others were using offensive language and throwing water bottles, and questioned why he should feel ashamed.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the incident as a serious breach of ethical standards and public conduct, emphasizing the negative impact on society and youth. It uses strong language condemning Lukić’s actions and highlights concerns about setting a harmful precedent. While the article presents the petitioners'

Why factuality (85): The article accurately reports the content of the petition, including the specific actions of Mate Lukić during the protest, the involvement of Dr. sc. Miranda Levanat-Peričić, and the call for sanctions against him. It aligns closely with the primary source document and does not introduce new infor

Why objectivity (70): The tone is somewhat emotive, using phrases like 'traže se sankcije' and 'primitivizam će postati standard', which suggest a strong stance against Lukić’s behavior. While the article presents the petition’s demands clearly, it frames the situation in a way that emphasizes the severity of the issue r

N1 Hrvatska logoN1 HrvatskaIndependentProgressive28 days ago
Police have launched an investigation into a Zadar councilman who has insulted protesters.

The Zagreb police have initiated a criminal investigation following the release of footage from Saturday's protest 'Hodaj za Liku, hodaj za Hrvatsku,' where Zadar county councilor Mate Lukić was seen harassing and pushing protesters. The video shows Lukić urging others to move away from a group of young men wearing black T-shirts with the slogan 'This battle protects Lika.' He is heard telling protesters to walk several meters ahead and is seen shoving a protester. Lukić confirmed his voice was on the footage but denied his behavior was aggressive. As a controversial figure known for past contentious actions, this incident has raised concerns about the conduct of local officials during protests.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the incident as a potential abuse of authority by a local official, highlighting the controversy surrounding Lukić’s actions and his history of provocative behavior. While the focus is on the alleged misconduct, the tone suggests concern over the treatment of protesters, aligning更

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