Dodik’s Trial Ongoing as Numerous Supporters Gather at the Court of BiH
Photo: Screenshot / Youtube
The trial of Republika Srpska (RS) President Milorad Dodik and RS Official Gazette acting director Miloš Lukić for failing to adhere to the decisions of the High Representative in BiH, Kristijan Šmit, resumed today at the BiH Court.
A significant number of citizens and officials of RS gathered to support Dodik outside the BiH Court, with some carrying banners featuring his image.
The vicinity of the BiH Court is heavily guarded by police.
Dodik’s attorney, Goran Bubić, announced on Tuesday that the first defendant, Dodik, would take the stand at today’s trial.
Dodik expressed on Tuesday that he believes the trial will not conclude with a verdict, but will significantly influence the “destiny of BiH.”
He faces accusations for signing a decree in July 2023, as the RS President, that nullifies the application and publication of the High Representative’s decisions within RS. This law also disregards decisions made by the Constitutional Court of BiH in the RS territory. Dodik is being prosecuted under amendments to the Criminal Code of BiH introduced by High Representative Schmidt, making non-compliance with his decisions and the Constitutional Court’s rulings a criminal offense, carrying a penalty of up to five years in prison and potential bans from public office.
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