Reis Kavazović's appeal to political leaders not to abuse the crisis

SARAJEVO, (Patria) - Today, the Reis-ul-ulema of the Islamic Community in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Husein ef. Kavazović, appealed to political leaders not to abuse the crisis caused by the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

The appeal, conveyed by MINA, states:

"As the Reis-ul-ulema and leader of the largest religious community in Bosnia and Herzegovina, I feel the need to warn both domestic and international public opinion that the decisions made, as well as some measures announced by political representatives of the Bosnian Serb entity RS and several cantons in the FBiH entity, have caused anxiety and unrest among citizens, including members of the Islamic Community in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

We understand the need for authorities at all levels to resort to various, even rigorous measures, to protect citizens from the spread of the COVID-19 virus, but we appeal to everyone not to use the introduction of a state of emergency to create new political realities on the ground or to use the already difficult situation in the country to create additional fear and tension.

We appeal to all political representatives of the authorities to coordinate all measures with competent state institutions and to overcome politicking, policies of division, and segregation. If ever, now is the time for political elites to show responsibility and maturity.

It is unimaginable that quarantines are being introduced across Bosnia and Herzegovina along imaginary ethnic lines and that borders and blockades are being announced not based on the recommendations of expert bodies responsible for health protection, but on ethnic and political principles. For the Islamic Community in Bosnia and Herzegovina, it is unacceptable to attempt to erect any obstacles to its free operation throughout the entire country.

No country can fight this problem alone, let alone an entity, canton, or municipality. It is time for everyone to cooperate and show responsibility in order to save lives. COVID-19 is not a threat to Bosniaks, Serbs, Croats, or the 'others'; it is a threat to humanity. We rightfully expect politicians, at least now in these difficult times when our citizens are so diligently following their instructions and making selfless sacrifices, to also show their own responsibility and stop playing their political games.

Finally, I appeal to those international institutions that have a clear mandate in Bosnia and Herzegovina not to allow irresponsible politicians to exploit the world's preoccupation with the coronavirus pandemic to achieve their political goals, which they could not achieve even through war.

I also appeal to everyone in this country and society to be vigilant about democratic processes and freedoms. The introduction of a state of emergency cannot be an excuse for restricting civil liberties or spreading corruption," it was emphasized in the appeal by Reis-ul-ulema Kavazović today.