The High Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Christian Schmidt, gave his comment for the German Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung regarding the statements of the President of Republika Srpska, Milorad Dodik, who announced the adoption of a decree by which Schmidt could be arrested if he comes to the territory of that entity. Schmidt confirmed his intention to visit Republika Srpska and did not rule out the possibility of removing Dodik if he continues with extreme actions. In the aforementioned interview, Schmidt explained how he would respond to Dodik’s threats, and announced his planned meetings in the RS during the coming days and weeks, especially in Banja Luka but also in other cities, stressing that he would stick to those plans. He also emphasized that Dodik should stop with his “egocentric madness”.
“I actually have appointments there in the next few days and weeks, especially in Banja Luka, but also in other cities. I stick to it – and I recommend Mr. Dodik to stop pushing his selfish follies.” Schmidt said.
He also referred to the legal aspect of his situation, explaining that, apart from invoking the Vienna Diplomatic Convention and having diplomatic immunity, Dodik does not have the authority to issue orders to the police.
“I am protected by the Vienna Diplomatic Convention and therefore enjoy immunity anyway, and besides that, Dodik would not have the authority to arrest me or order my arrest because he does not have the authority to give instructions to the police. The prosecution would have to clarify that first. Dodik already tried to report me to the Republika Srpska, and the smart Banja Luka Public Prosecutor’s Office, as a precautionary measure, immediately forwarded this procedure to the State Public Prosecutor’s Office in Sarajevo, from whom I heard nothing further. Last but not least, Dodik’s behavior is a slap in the face to the EU, which is trying to improve the rule of law in Bosnia. He is deceiving himself if he believes that there are special rights or special regulations for him. So, Mr. Dodik should prepare himself for some rather unpleasant moments,” said the high representative.
