Dodik: Zorana does not understand the essence of the referendum in RS

"As twisted views prevail for everything in Bosnia and Herzegovina, so it is in this case. I believe that Ms. Mihajlović does not understand the essence of what this is about at all and I do not believe that Serbia could have problems because of the referendum in Republika Srpska, or at least I don't know about it".

This was stated for "Večernje novosti" by Milorad Dodik, President of Republika Srpska, reacting to the statement of the Deputy Prime Minister of the Serbian government, Zorana Mihajlović, that "the referendum in Republika Srpska on the Court and Prosecutor's Office of BiH would in no way suit Serbia".

Leaving open the possibility that Mihajlović was misinterpreted, Dodik claims that the stated position is "something he hears for the first time, and that it comes from Belgrade":

"What has been Belgrade's stance so far is the opinion that RS should consider holding a referendum, but that the decision should be ours. This, if true, would be the first time someone would express a different view in this way."

The President of Republika Srpska emphasizes that Serbia has never shown interest in interfering in the internal affairs of BiH, especially in RS, although, as he said, RS likes to hear Serbia's views.

"We would regret it if Serbia had any consequences in this regard, but if someone in Serbia has undertaken something on this issue, I can only say that we will decide on it independently and consider all views. The referendum will certainly be held one day, and in that regard, it is most important not to violate the Dayton Agreement, and let the people decide," says Dodik.