Dodik Approves Legislation Prohibiting BiH Institutions from Operating in Republika Srpska

Banja Luka (Fena) – The President of the Republic of Srpska, Milorad Dodik, signed decrees this evening that officially proclaim laws passed during a special session of the National Assembly of the Republic of Srpska. These laws ban the operations of the Court and Prosecutor’s Office of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), the State Investigation and Protection Agency (SIPA), and the High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council of BiH within the territory of this Bosnian entity.

Earlier in the day, Dodik indicated that the leadership of the Republic of Srpska has received information suggesting that the Prosecutor’s Office of BiH plans to “initiate certain proceedings” against politicians in the region.

I urge them not to proceed if they desire peace and stability. Should they attempt to come, we will not permit it – stated Dodik.

So far, there has been no official response from the institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina regarding the actions taken by the Republic of Srpska authorities. However, it is anticipated that relevant judicial bodies will respond with appropriate legal measures in the near future.

Representatives of the Bosniak community in BiH, along with the opposition from the Republic of Srpska, have voiced their concerns about Dodik’s actions. BiH’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Elmedin Konaković (NiP), highlighted the threat to the constitutional order, while the Prime Minister of the Federation of BiH, Nermin Nikšić (SDP), called upon the judiciary and international entities to respond, interpreting Dodik’s moves as an attempt at a state coup.

In contrast, the opposition Serbian Democratic Party (SDS) chose not to engage in discussions regarding the proposed new Constitution of the Republic of Srpska.

“In a politically charged climate, during a time of profound crisis, discussions on issues that necessitate stable social conditions, broad consensus, and ultimately a referendum by citizens should not be initiated. We urge the authorities in the Republic of Srpska to de-escalate tensions and adopt a more prudent approach to politics. Discussions regarding the adoption of a new Constitution should be deferred until passions have calmed,” they stated in a release on March 5.