The Bosnian-Herzegovinian (BiH) great, distinguished doctor, humanitarian, patriot, prim. Dr. Abdulah Nakas, former director of the General Hospital in Sarajevo, after whom this healthcare institution was named, passed away a full 20 years ago. Two decades since his death were marked two days ago in Sarajevo, and on behalf of the employees of the General Hospital, the director, Prof. Dr. Ismet Gavrankapetanovic, together with associates, laid flowers at the memorial fountain and paid tribute, reminding of the contribution of the late prim. Dr. Nakas in saving wounded and ill fellow citizens during the past war in BiH.
Distinguished doctor
The commemoration of the anniversary was also attended by the prim. Dr. Sead Zeljo, head of the Urology Department of the General Hospital and a member of the Management Board of that institution, who pointed out the curious fact that the late prim. Dr. Nakas died on the same day that he was born.
With special emotion, prim. Dr. Zeljo speaks about this distinguished doctor because he said that he was both his teacher and friend and the best man. There are historical times, he emphasized, that confirm the human and professional values of an individual, and that happened in the war against BiH, when the late prim. Dr. Abdulah Nakas, as a doctor, expert, and beloved figure among people in BiH, was also a participant in the defense of BiH.
“He was a top doctor, a capable manager, and selfless in dedicating his potential to others. Such a person was key in contributing to the reorganization of the then military hospital, which began to function for the benefit of the defense of BiH and its citizens. He enabled the hospital to operate in the absence of electricity, water, food, and medicine, and to provide services and function throughout the entire war. Through this approach, an efficient organizational structure and personnel were created, including doctors and all medical staff, so that we never sent anyone back and the patient was always cared for,” emphasized Dr. Zeljo.
Prim. Dr. Nermin Mahmutovic, head of the Surgery Department of the Public Institution General Hospital, speaks of Abdulah with nostalgia.
Dedicated to the patient
“It used to be said that only a good person can also be a good doctor. Avdo was the best. In his example, there is great truth. He was approachable and ready to help anyone with anything. In his work, he always gave the maximum and was maximally dedicated to the patient. He created and guided a generation of surgeons. Along with me, there are also Dr. Custovic, Dr. Heljica, the late Dr. Saric…” Dr. Mahmutovic said.
Dr. Nakas is responsible for the fact that the General Hospital still exists today and proudly bears his name.
“He was in surgery what Hase and Svabo were in football, Kindje in basketball, Pimpek and Halid in music. He is part of the true Sarajevo style. His generations called him Avdo, Nale, or Naki. Our generation respectfully calls him Dr. Nakas and Chief,” said Dr. Mahmutovic, who concluded:
“Thank you for teaching us not only the job but life as well.”
Indelible mark
During his career, Dr. Nakas held numerous important positions, including the role of head of surgical disciplines, chief surgeon of the Army of the Republic of BiH (ARBiH), as well as founder and president of the Independent Union of Healthcare Workers. He was also a representative in the Parliament of BiH, where, through his engagement, he significantly contributed to the legislative process. His work in the medical profession, especially during the aggression against BiH, and his engagement in the post-war period, left an indelible mark.
