Penava: We will not passively watch as the Croats in BiH vote for the fifth time

In response to concerns over the potential fifth instance of Croat voters being overrepresented in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s presidency election, Croatian President of the Domestic Movement Ivan Penava has stated that Croatia will not remain passive in the face of such occurrences. Speaking in the central Dnevnik HTV newspaper, Penava emphasized that the recent adoption of a resolution by the Croatian Parliament aimed at strengthening the political position of Croats in Bosnia and Herzegovina was a clear message regarding the protection of equality for the Croatian nation. He dismissed criticisms that followed the resolution's approval from Bosnia and Herzegovina. The resolution, which was adopted with support from coalition partners Most and parts of independent representatives, reflects compromises necessary within political agreements. Penava noted that while changes were made to the initial proposal, these were minor compared to the broader goal of demonstrating unity and clarity in Croatia’s stance towards protecting the rights of its citizens in Bosnia and Herzegovina. He expressed satisfaction that the resolution passed under the leadership of the Domestic Movement, highlighting the significance of this achievement. Penava also pointed out that the final version of the resolution, though softened, still represents a continuation of Croatia’s policy toward its citizens in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This, he argued, fulfills Croatia’s constitutional obligation. He further stressed that the adoption of the resolution marked a strong step forward, underscoring the importance of having the Domestic Movement rather than the SDS in government. Addressing sharp reactions from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Penava asserted that Croatian interventions would be unnecessary if the principle of equal treatment of constituent nations was respected. He warned against the gradual transformation of Croats into a minority in Bosnia and Herzegovina, emphasizing that Croatia does not aim to provoke tensions. However, he clarified that Croatia will not allow anyone to dominate over its citizens in Bosnia and Herzegovina without resistance. Looking ahead to the general elections in Bosnia and Herzegovina scheduled for October, Penava warned that the previous pattern of overrepresentation of Croats should not repeat itself. He urged all parties to recognize that Croatia will not tolerate such practices, stating that although Croatia remains friendly and hospitable, such actions will not go unanswered. Finally, Penava addressed the stability of the ruling coalition, attributing it to the willingness to reach compromises. He described this as a process of agreement and construction, distinct from destruction, concluding that the coalition's stability is built upon mutual understanding and cooperation.