Poljak responded to the Split-Dalmatia mayor: "Take a picture again, take credit from the firefighters"

A heated exchange has erupted between Marijana Puljak, a local representative, and Blaženko Boban, the mayor of Split-Dalmatia, following a fire in Omiš. Puljak has called for Boban's resignation over his handling of the crisis, accusing him of shifting blame onto firefighters and failing to provide adequate information during the emergency. The dispute has escalated into a public confrontation, with both sides exchanging sharp criticisms through social media and other platforms. The fire broke out in a populated area of Solin, a town near Omiš, under challenging weather conditions including strong winds. According to Puljak, Boban’s response was inadequate and misleading, leading to confusion among residents and putting lives at risk. She accused the mayor of using the firefighters' efforts to deflect attention from his own mismanagement. “It is heartbreaking that someone who caused a fire in a populated area during a severe storm is now hiding behind firefighters whom this act put in danger,” she wrote on her Facebook page. Puljak further criticized Boban for allegedly prioritizing personal interests over public safety. She claimed that the mayor had sent firefighters into life-threatening situations simply because he was annoyed by a film crew and its equipment. This accusation came amid reports of chaos and confusion during the fire, with residents relying on informal communication channels such as WhatsApp rather than official warnings. “Instead of the system we as citizens paid for, 8.4 million euros, information about the danger and evacuation was received via free WhatsApp messages,” she stated. She emphasized the importance of timely and accurate information in crisis management, pointing out that the lack of proper communication led to random wandering by residents, traffic collapse, and even casualties. As someone with years of experience managing incidents, crises, and business continuity plans, she argued that the fundamental rule in any crisis is providing clear and prompt information to prevent chaos. “The role of the Crisis Management Unit is not to send a message ‘block the roads,’ but to give citizens clear instructions on how to protect themselves,” she added. Puljak also pointed out the inefficiency of infrastructure, particularly the road connecting Split to Omiš, which she claimed hindered a swift and safe evacuation. She noted that three decades of Boban’s governance in the municipality and the country had apparently not been enough time to complete a major project. “Of course, the evacuation would have been much faster and safer if you had done anything regarding the fast road Split-Omiš,” she remarked. Boban responded to Puljak’s accusations, calling them an attempt to shift blame and engage in what he described as “exploitation of tragedy.” He defended his actions and suggested that Puljak’s criticism was politically motivated, given her affiliation with the Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ). “This is expected from HDZ members who regularly hide their irresponsibility and crime behind others’ merits,” he said in his rebuttal. The conflict highlights deepening tensions within the region, with residents left questioning the effectiveness of local leadership during emergencies. Both parties have refused to back down, with Puljak urging Boban to take responsibility and resign, while Boban insists on his own version of events. The situation continues to unfold, with further developments likely as the community seeks clarity and accountability.