Welcome for handball players causes conflict between Croatian Government and City of Zagreb over Thompson, Mayor says Plenković is breaking the law

(Patria) - The Croatian Government and the Croatian Handball Federation have taken over the organization of the official welcome for the handball players who won the bronze medal on Sunday. The Government also invited Thompson at the request of the handball players, and the welcome begins at 6 PM in Ban Jelačić Square.

The City of Zagreb did not agree to bring Thompson, which led to threats, and the City Administration building was evacuated today.

The City of Zagreb pointed out that the Croatian Government did not seek consent for the use of public space.

Mayor Tomislav Tomašević held a press conference in Lisinski, where he stated that the Government decided to have Thompson at the welcome by force.

"The spears are breaking over Thompson, who cannot perform in public spaces. They need a permit from the City of Zagreb to use public space. This is a precedent, institutional violence, irresponsible behavior by Plenković, who does not respect the authorities in the City of Zagreb. This is an attack by the state on the City of Zagreb. This is also a violation of the Constitution. I believe this has shocked many; I don't remember any government doing to any local government what this government has done to the City of Zagreb," added Tomašević.

He points out that HDZ could not win the elections in Zagreb, so they are now carrying out institutional violence: "The Government is participating in the overthrow of democratic authorities in Zagreb. They decided to do this deliberately in Zagreb. The Government is knowingly breaking the law, what kind of message does that send to this society? Then they don't need permits either. Where is that normal?"

He also commented on the bomb threats: "Is what is happening today normal? Is it normal for the police to prevent municipal wardens from acting? Is Croatia a state of law if such things can happen?"