STEVANDIĆ: NO OBSTACLES TO HOLDING REFERENDUM

BANJA LUKA, OCTOBER 5 /SRNA/ – Republika Srpska National Assembly Speaker, Nenad Stevandić, says the decision on holding referendum in Srpska lies in the hands of the National Assembly deputies and the ruling structure, who decide on all processes, emphasizing the date will be discussed in line with official deadlines.

"In Republika Srpska, we are the ones in charge, thus it cannot be imposed from the outside. We will definitely complete the referendum commission with representatives of Bosniaks and Croats, whom we have invited," Stevandić told the press in Banja Luka. He says the postponement of the referendum would be considered, which proves that Republika Srpska is acting democratically and is deciding on all processes. "The decision is now in effect and there are no obstacles to implementing the referendum," Stevandić stated. Speaking about the upcoming UN Security Council session where Republika Srpska’s report will be presented, Stevandić said that this proves Srpska is capable of addressing the global stage. He recalled that a similar effort was made at the UN General Assembly, when thanks to the involvement of Željka Cvijanović, Serb BiH Presidency member and Serbia, a document from the Republika Srpska National Assembly was sent to more than 60 international addresses. "Everyone will again receive documents denying the idea that one man can pass laws. All of this will fall apart at the European Court. However, we still have Brussels supporting such processes. That’s a disgrace," Stevandić stressed. He also called the European Union’s behaviour shameful in relation to attacks on Serbs in the Federation of BiH, because they remain silent - or when they do react, their response is mild. "There is a political wing of Hamas in BiH. They endanger Serbs in the Federation of BiH, who have become second-class citizens. Only in majority-Serb areas are their rights somewhat protected. They abuse Serbs out of hatred toward Republika Srpska," said Stevandić.