Mikhail Zhupa has conquered Choj

In Sinj, the 311th annual Alka festival kicked off with a mix of tradition and political tension. Premier Andrej Plenković attended the opening ceremony, expressing his support for the event while emphasizing the government’s commitment to regional development. The festival, which has been held in Sinj for over three centuries, drew large crowds and featured traditional races, cultural performances, and local festivities. However, the atmosphere was also marked by sharp criticism from Mayor Miro Bulj, who accused the national government of neglecting healthcare infrastructure in the region. Mayor Bulj, speaking during the event, called the Alka “part of the identity of Sinjan and Cetinjans” and stressed its role as a symbol of unity, faith, and heritage. He criticized the ruling party for its health policy, particularly pointing to the closure of the maternity ward in Sinj. “Today will be a day of celebration, but the ones who have closed the maternity ward and literally destroyed healthcare services will be photographed,” he said. Bulj argued that despite numerous occupations, ranging from the Ottomans to modern times, the maternity ward had never been abolished. “Birth and Alka are significant not just for Sinj and Dalmatia, but for Croatia itself, for our identity,” he added. Bulj also demanded the establishment of a general hospital in Sinj, stating that children should be born there rather than in Split or other cities. “If you love the Alka so much, open a general hospital for us,” he urged. He further highlighted the need for infrastructure improvements, including a fast road and other promised investments. Despite these demands, Bulj refused to sit in the official guest seat alongside representatives of the national government, calling Sinj a city that has defended the nation’s faith, traditions, and culture. “Sinj is not a stage for your political appearances, but a city that has stood up for our nation,” he declared. The event attracted prominent political figures, including President of Mosta Nikola Grmoja, who praised Bulj’s leadership and emphasized the importance of listening to citizens. Grmoja described his political approach as one focused on serving the people, not performing for them. He noted that Sinj has some of the lowest taxes, highest salaries, free kindergartens, and a positive demographic trend in Croatia. He announced plans to address issues that concern the public, stressing that populism means being close to the people, not alienating them. Grmoja proposed a campaign slogan for upcoming elections: “What we haven’t sold, we’ve poisoned.” President of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) Siniša Hajdaš Dončić acknowledged Bulj’s efforts as a mayor and urged that personal tensions should take a backseat to the occasion. “We still live in parliamentary democracy,” he said. Hajdaš emphasized that the SDP would remain active on the ground, offering concrete solutions rather than mere criticism. He stated that the party values both critique and action, and that it aims to listen to citizens and uncover anomalies. “Ultimately, the election will likely come down to one story: either us or the mafia,” he concluded. Meanwhile, the main event of the Alka festival, the race itself, was set for the following day. The competition, known for its high stakes and dramatic moments, saw participants from across Croatia and beyond. Mihovil Župa, a former winner, claimed victory in the Čoja race, marking a return to glory after eight years. The event, held under challenging weather conditions, included the historic Bara race, which took place in the dark for the first time in its history. Jure Domazet Lošo won that race, setting the stage for the final competition. Organizers expressed confidence in the success of the festival, noting the enthusiasm of the crowd and the continued presence of dignitaries from abroad.