“Calling for Respect for Judicial Independence in BiH: A Plea to Avoid Interventions, Threats, and Pressure”
The High Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), Kristijan Schmidt, announced today in Sarajevo that the Steering Board of the Peace Implementation Council in BiH (PIK) has urged all parties to avoid interventions, pressures, and political threats, emphasizing the importance of upholding the independence of the judiciary in BiH.
In his capacity as the Chairman of the PIK Board of Directors, Schmidt mentioned that the meeting focused on the current political climate surrounding the court cases involving the President of Republika Srpska (RS), Milorad Dodik, and the Acting Official Gazette of RS, Miloš Lukić, before the Court of BiH.
During a press conference held outside the headquarters of the Office of the High Representative (OHR) in Sarajevo, Schmidt remarked, “The PIK Board of Directors has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the territorial integrity of BiH, as a unified and sovereign state comprising two entities and the Brčko District.”
He conveyed a personal message to the citizens of BiH, stating, “I understand that many of you are deeply worried about the situation in the country. However, be assured that the international community is alert and on guard. The Dayton agreement and institutions are safeguarded and must be honored. The international community remains steadfastly dedicated to maintaining peace and stability in the region,” Schmidt emphasized.
He further clarified that there are “no negotiations” regarding the status of BiH and reiterated that the country will continue advancing on its European path, which its citizens are also committed to following.
Earlier today, Schmidt also held a meeting with Major General Florin-Marian Barbou, the Commander of EUFOR in BiH.
The OHR announced that their discussions revolved around the current political and security landscape in BiH.
The Court of BiH is set to deliver the first-instance verdict tomorrow at 1:00 p.m. against the President of Republika Srpska (RS), Milorad Dodik, and the acting Official Gazette of RS, Miloš Lukić, for their refusal to implement decisions made by the High Representative in BiH.
It has been indicated by the Court of BiH that the verdict will not be broadcast live due to technical limitations.
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