Bećirović in Višegrad at commemoration marking 33rd anniversary of the 'Living Bonfire' crime – Bikavac in Višegrad

(Patria) - Member of the BiH Presidency Denis Bećirović attended a commemoration marking the 33rd anniversary of the crime known as the 'Living Bonfire' in the Bikavac settlement in Višegrad, where tribute was paid to the innocent victims of one of the most horrific war crimes during the aggression against the Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina.



In this war crime, committed against Bosniak civilians, more than 70 civilians were burned alive, and only one person survived.

Remembering the innocent victims is a key part of the process of confronting the past, building justice, and strengthening mutual trust among the citizens of the state of Bosnia and Herzegovina. We must not forget the suffering that occurred. We must respect the pain and suffering of the victims' families, and persist on the path of truth, justice, and reconciliation, said Bećirović.

The commemoration, organized by the Association 'Women Victims of War', brought together members of victims' families, representatives of non-governmental organizations, and citizens, who laid wreaths as a sign of lasting remembrance of this war crime.

Bećirović also visited the settlements of Međeđa and Ustiprača in the eastern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina. He spoke with residents about their existential problems.

During the conversation, residents recalled the suffering of Bosniaks in this area, and on that occasion, the importance of preserving the culture of remembrance and truth was emphasized. They thanked Bećirović for the visit and stressed the importance of support from the highest state officials in implementing concrete measures aimed at improving the quality of life for returnees in this part of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Bećirović said that peace, justice, and equality are especially important for the future and progress of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and that returnee communities deserve stronger support from all levels of government. He emphasized that it is very important for state officials to spend more time among returnees and, through their presence, provide support to those who, despite numerous challenges, remain on their hearths and build lives in the areas from which they were expelled.

"Returnees are an important part of the foundation of Bosnia and Herzegovina as a multi-ethnic and democratic state. Their struggle for life in peace, dignity, and security deserves not only institutional but also human support," Bećirović stated.

According to the residents present, this is the first time that a member of the BiH Presidency has visited Međeđa and Ustiprača and spoken with the locals.