Butda Grbin lost both arms in the majority, the list of Lorena Boljunčić passes to the opposition

Pula: Independent List of Ljubica Boljunčić Leaves Governing Coalition The independent list of Ljubica Boljunčić has exited the governing coalition in Pula’s City Council, marking a shift in power dynamics within the local administration. The decision was announced by Boljunčić during a press conference, where she stated that after a year of collaboration with Mayor Peđa Grbin and the coalition of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and the Independent Democrats (IDS), agreed projects had not been realized, nor had a clear vision for the city's development emerged. Boljunčić emphasized that this move was not made hastily or due to political turmoil, but rather after sustained efforts to foster cooperation, dialogue, and solutions over the past year. She argued that the city government lacked both the will and ambition to implement key initiatives that have long troubled residents. Boljunčić outlined several major projects that were supposed to be initiated under the coalition, including the construction of affordable housing, traffic studies, urban planning improvements, and the revitalization of the city center. These projects, she noted, had been discussed extensively and even prioritized, yet they remained unrealized. She criticized the current administration for failing to act on these commitments and for lacking a strategic approach to long-term development. According to Boljunčić, the city does not suffer from a lack of funds but rather from a lack of developmental ambition. She added that the city’s leadership has not adequately engaged with citizens, entrepreneurs, or experts who could provide practical insights into addressing local challenges. The departure of the two council members from the independent list of Ljubica Boljunčić reduces the ruling majority in Pula’s City Council from 13 to 11 out of 22 total members. This means the governing bloc now holds one fewer vote than required to pass decisions, significantly weakening its position. Boljunčić stressed that her list had supported Grbin and the coalition believing that their expertise and experience could help drive Pula forward. However, she concluded that the current governance model has failed to deliver meaningful change, prompting her group to withdraw from the coalition “with a clear conscience,” not because they seek opposition, but because they wish to support a different kind of Pula, one that plans, listens to its citizens, and aims to become one of the most successful cities on Croatia’s coast. In response, some political observers have questioned the significance of the move. Sean Soldatić of the Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ) remarked that the decision lacks political weight since the mayor still retains a majority. He suggested that the move appears more like an attempt to salvage the image of the independent list rather than a genuine policy shift. Similarly, Dušica Radojčić of the party Možemo! accused the coalition of pursuing policies that are disconnected from the public and aligned instead with private interests. Mayor Grbin, however, denied that there were any problems during the period of collaboration. He maintained that communication and agreements had taken place, and that the city administration had followed through on its responsibilities. Nevertheless, the loss of two council members has left the governing coalition in a precarious position, particularly regarding major decisions such as budget approvals, spatial planning, and large-scale projects. Boljunčić has promised that her list, now acting as an opposition group, will not oppose all decisions but will instead advocate for proposals that benefit the city. She also confirmed that Paola Orlić, head of the Cultural Department, will remain in her role despite the political split, ensuring continuity in administrative functions.