Stjepan Mesić announces possible candidacy for Croatian President

ZAGREB, (Patria) - Former Croatian President Stjepan Mesić said he has to consider running against current President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović in the upcoming presidential elections, Index reports.

He stated this while appearing on RTL Direkt, in response to the question of who would be a good opponent for Kolinda.

- Several are mentioned. They even mention me. I can actually run because the constitution was changed during my term. I have to consider whether I would accept it, but I am not thinking about it too seriously. But I saw a prime minister who was elected at 92 in Malaysia - said Mesić.

He did not want to comment too much on Kolinda's work.

- I would not comment on her first term because it has not ended. I don't know if anyone in the world does these tours. The system of moving the office is new in the law. But it is a political decision that does not conflict with the law - he said.

He did comment on the conflict between the Prime Minister and the President.

- The referendum aims to remove Plenković because he has become a nuisance to ultra-conservative forces. Precisely because the Constitution clearly defines the relationships, there is no reason for this bickering that is happening now. This is more about personal interests and positioning. The President is working on her promotion to win a second term - Mesić stated.

When asked if he slammed his fist on the table, he replied:

- I don't remember that, there was no need. I can say that I cooperated well with all prime ministers. With Kosor, with Račan, and with Sanader. Each of us respected what the Constitution gives us, both rights and obligations.

He added that he believes the president should still be elected directly, and he also commented on Željka Markić's new referendum.

- I would find it difficult to express myself much here. It is a failed action. This is about removing Plenković and the government because he has become a nuisance to ultra-conservative forces. The President must also think seriously about this - said Mesić.