UK: I don't see the protests as politicized, I saw acquaintances, colleagues expressing dissatisfaction with the government, and I heard it

(Patria) - The Prime Minister of Sarajevo Canton in resignation, Nihad Uk (Our Party), addressed the public today in the KS Government building regarding the current situation, following the tragic tram accident that occurred last Thursday.

“When I took responsibility, knowing both the positive and negative aspects, I set a goal that, for as long as the mandate lasts, I can walk the streets upright afterwards, without any shame. Within 72 hours, we had three Government sessions, we were on the ground and visited the injured. We followed the protests that are happening, I could see colleagues from the street, acquaintances – these were not people imported into our city. They expressed dissatisfaction with the government, I heard it. Young people also called for my resignation. My resignation is not an escape, but taking responsibility. I will continue to do the job until the new KS Government is appointed,” said Uk.

He added that no project will stop until the election of the new KS Government and that they will continue working until then.

“Unfortunately, the tragedy happened in the sector that received the most investment. Hundreds of millions of KM have been invested in public urban transport. We found over 300 million KM in debt. The previous Government filed a series of criminal complaints – 47 people were involved – but, unfortunately, nothing has happened in that regard. The second institution we strengthened was the KS Prosecutor's Office, along with the courts and police. I insist that cases be opened and that those responsible for the situation in GRAS and the loss of 300 million KM that we found be prosecuted. I welcome the director's decision to resign and I will ask the Government to introduce a forced administration in GRAS. The most important thing is to finally establish a business process within this company that will guarantee the safety of citizens so that this tragedy never happens again,” said Uk.

He stated that all old trams have been withdrawn from public transport and that none will be put into service without a public announcement of the findings on their condition.

“I am encouraged by the information that our Ella is currently stable,” said Uk.

Speaking about the new KS Government, Uk said that this is now a matter of parliamentary procedure.

“My current focus is solely on the tragedy and the things that must be operationally resolved in the functioning of KS. Policies will determine the next steps regarding the appointment of the new KS Government. Everything is open, but I hope this Government will not remain until the elections. I expect the policies, whether from the position or the opposition, to reach an agreement,” said Uk.

He stated that his resignation is not an act of saving anyone, but an act of responsibility towards the citizens of Sarajevo.

Although he said that the Government had not officially received the demands of the youth, they had withdrawn old trams from use since this morning. He invited them to submit their demands.

“Old trams that are technically sound have been withdrawn from public transport, additional safety analyses of these old trams will be conducted, and none will be put into service without a public announcement of the analysis and certification of all these trams,” said Uk.