The police are asking for 30 days in jail for Keleminca

The Croatian police have submitted a formal charge against Dražen Keleminec, a prominent political figure and leader of the Autochthonous Croatian Party of Rights (A-HSP), seeking a 30-day prison sentence for alleged violations of public order during a protest held near the home of Boris Dežulović’s parents in Split. The incident took place on a Saturday when supporters of Keleminec gathered in front of the residence, sparking a series of legal actions against both him and his party.

According to the indictment filed by the Split police before the Municipal Offense Court, Keleminec and A-HSP are accused of multiple offenses related to the protest. The court has been asked to extend the existing ban on approaching the Dežulović family's home within 200 meters for a duration of one year. Additionally, the police requested a fine of 660 euros for A-HSP, arguing that as organizers of the gathering, they failed to ensure public safety and order, thereby violating Article 16 of the Law on Public Gatherings.

Keleminec himself faces charges under Article 21 of the same law, with the police alleging he did not take necessary measures to maintain order and peace as the head of the gathering. This includes accusations that he personally committed violations outlined in Articles 5 and 6 of the Law on Offenses Against Public Order and Peace. A fine of 260 euros was sought for this specific offense.

Another significant point raised in the indictment involves an audio clip played during the protest, which contained the phrase “Čedo, mi smo došli. Čedo, čedo,” repeated four times. The police argue that the term “Čedo” is derogatory and refers to members of Serbian paramilitary groups, specifically Chetniks. They claim the message implied, “Chetniks, we have come, Chetniks, Chetniks.” For this act, the police requested a fine of 700 euros.

Further allegations include Keleminec’s behavior towards police officers present at the scene. He reportedly shouted, “You protect the Chetniks. You are on the side of those who are against the Croatian state. You protect those who were with the Chetniks in tanks when Vukovar fell and when our soldiers were killed in Vukovar. Are you Croatian or Serbian police? You violate police authority. Let shame be upon you.”

He continued with provocative remarks, challenging the police to arrest him, stating, “Go ahead, arrest me. I have not obeyed your orders. Do you have the courage to arrest me? You don’t have the guts to tell your superiors that I will not break the laws of the Republic of Croatia.”

Despite these accusations, Keleminec denied any wrongdoing and was released after being brought before the Municipal Offense Court in Split. The legal proceedings will continue in the coming days with the testimony of police officers who secured the gathering.

The situation highlights tensions surrounding public demonstrations and the enforcement of laws governing them in Croatia. It also underscores the complex dynamics between political figures and law enforcement, particularly in cases involving sensitive historical references and national identity issues. The case is likely to draw attention from both supporters and critics of Keleminec, reflecting broader societal divisions over such matters.

The incident has sparked discussions about the balance between free speech and maintaining public order, especially in contexts where historical grievances and nationalist sentiments intersect. As the trial progresses, further details may emerge regarding the nature of the protest, the conduct of participants, and the role of local authorities in managing such gatherings. The outcome could set a precedent for similar cases and influence future approaches to handling protests in Croatia.