The Deputy Minister of Finance and Treasury of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), Muhamed Hasanovic, believes that BiH is in an extremely difficult and turbulent period, a time of serious challenges to its constitutional stability, the functioning of institutions, and the democratic order. In such circumstances, he stated, the responsibility of holders of public office is not only political, but also state-related, historical, and moral. Every decision must, as he said, be measured by one criterion, whether it strengthens or weakens the state of BiH.
“For precisely that reason, in the interest of the state of BiH, I have decided not to accept the position of Director of the Tax Administration of the Federation of BiH (FBiH), even though it is a function with a four-year mandate,” Hasanovic said.
He points out that he is making this decision for two clear and responsible reasons.
“The first reason is the protection of the institutional stability of the state. As Deputy Minister of Finance and Treasury of BiH, I have signed key decisions without which the functioning of the state would be brought into question (the execution of the international arbitration award ‘Viaduct,’ securing funds for the introduction of new technologies in the electoral process, signing decisions for the implementation of the 2024 Local Elections and the extraordinary elections for President of Republika Srpska (RS)). I am aware that at this moment there is no political consensus for the appointment of a new deputy minister. With my potential departure, representatives of pro-Bosnian political options would be left without a single leadership position in the financial system of BiH, while at the same time a serious institutional risk would be opened due to the lack of capacity for the timely signing of decisions necessary for the implementation of the 2026 General Elections, as well as other key decisions in the coming period. Regardless of the fact that such a development might suit some, it will not happen,” Hasanovic emphasized.
As he further stated, the second reason is his professional, personal, and moral integrity:
“I come from the real sector, and my approach is not political form, but responsibility for results. I believe that a position should be accepted only when there is a real possibility to do more and better for the state. In the existing circumstances, that would not be possible in the way I consider correct, responsible, and beneficial for BiH, and accepting the position would mean abandoning the principles I have consistently defended so far.”
Hasanovic said that he “will continue to work dedicatedly in the Ministry of Finance and Treasury of BiH, as well as on strengthening the SDP Sarajevo.”
“I do not shy away from responsibility, nor do I seek comfort. I direct my professional engagement to where, under the given circumstances, I can most effectively contribute to the protection of the interests of the state and to making decisions that have a real and measurable effect. That is why I remain in the position of Deputy Minister of Finance and Treasury of BiH, not only as a factor of institutional stability, but also as an active bearer of responsibility with a clear and unwavering focus on protecting the interests of the state of BiH. I have informed the Prime Minister of the Government of the FBiH, Nermin Niksic, of my decision in writing. The state is above any position! Responsibility is above personal comfort! BiH above all!” stated Deputy Minister of Finance and Treasury of BiH Muhamed Hasanovic in a press release.
