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U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesman Press Statement

Press Statement by James P. Rubin, Spokesman
February 3, 1999

Bosnia: Republika Srpska Prime Minister Nomination

Last September’s elections in Bosnia and Herzegovina demonstrated the continuing trend toward moderation and reconciliation by the votes of that country. In particular, the pro-Dayton reform government of Prime Minister Dodik gained seats and with the other pro-Dayton parties now has a majority in the Parliamentary Assembly of the Republika Srpska.

Therefore, the United States deeply regrets the continuing failure of Republika Srpska President Nikola Poplasen to reflect this popular mandate in carrying out his responsibility to nominate an RS Prime Minister.

On February 3, President Poplasen nominated Petar Djokic as Prime Minister, without even consulting the leaders of the parliamentary majority. This third nomination follows the defeat of Poplasen’s two other nominees, Dragan Kalinic and Brane Miljus.

The position of the United States has not changed. We continue to support strongly the government of Prime Minister Milorad Dodik. The United States calls on President Poplasen to act in accordance with his constitutional responsibilities and the clear popular mandate, and to immediately nominate Mr. Dodik as Prime Minister.

After the tremendous damage done by the SDS’s rule, Prime Minister Dodik and the SLOGA Coalition have done much to build stability, confidence, and prosperity in the RS. Now, all that is being threatened by President Poplasen’s actions, which ignore the will of the majority and appear to be inspired by non-democratic forces from outside the country in which he holds office.

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