SHAME Mayor Puharić calls for review of decision to award 'Sixth of April Award' to BIMA association

(Patria) - Regarding the decision of the Sarajevo City Council to award the 'Sixth of April Award' to the association Medical Association BIMA, whose members are accused in the case against Abdulah Skaka, the Mayor of Sarajevo, Predrag Puharić, announced himself.

The 'Sixth of April Award' represents the highest recognition that the City of Sarajevo awards to individuals and organizations for their exceptional contribution in various fields.

"The process of nominating and selecting laureates takes place according to clearly defined procedures: Public call for nominations: Each year, the City Council publishes a public call for the nomination of candidates for the 'Sixth of April Award'. Evaluation of proposals: The Award Committee reviews the submitted proposals and compiles a shortlist of candidates.
Decision of the City Council: The City Council votes and makes the final decision on the award recipients.

It is important to note that the mayor can propose a candidate for the 'Sixth of April Award', and this year he proposed Ismail Barlov (as did Edin Džeko), but the mayor has no role in making the decision to award the prize.

Puharić stated that although he does not have formal authority in the process of awarding the 'Sixth of April Award', he believes it is of fundamental importance that the laureates of this recognition are individuals or organizations with unquestionable moral and professional integrity.

"Given the fact that the members of the aforementioned association are currently facing accusations related to the investigation against former mayor Abdulah Skaka, and that the City has sued BIMA for misused funds, I express concern that awarding the prize at this time could negatively affect the reputation and credibility of the award itself, as well as the City of Sarajevo.

In light of the above, in accordance with my authority, I have submitted a request for the City Council to review its decision to award the 'Sixth of April Award' to the BIMA association.

I believe it is of key importance to ensure that the recognitions we bestow reflect the values and standards we strive for as a community. I hope that through our joint efforts, we will preserve the integrity and significance of our city awards," stated the Mayor of Sarajevo.