The Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina has issued a nationwide arrest warrant for Milorad Dodik, the president of the Serb-majority entity Republika Srpska, along with Prime Minister Radovan Višković and National Assembly Speaker Nenad Stevandić. This move increases pressure on Dodik and his allies, as authorities accuse them of acting against the country’s constitution. If encountered, any police officer in Bosnia is required to arrest them immediately.
High-Ranking Officials Evading Arrest
Bosnian media reports indicate that Stevandić has already left for Serbia, suggesting that some officials may be actively avoiding arrest. This development follows a similar warrant issued by state-level prosecutors last week, which law enforcement did not enforce. The court’s recent decision underscores its intent to address what it sees as a violation of the constitutional order.
Dodik’s Rejection of Authority and Push for Autonomy
Milorad Dodik has not responded directly to the latest warrant but continues to reject the authority of the state prosecutor. On social media platform X, he announced plans to establish a Republika Srpska border police to control movement between Bosnia’s two entities. This step appears to be part of his broader effort to strengthen Republika Srpska’s autonomy and weaken the central government’s authority.
Dodik has consistently refused to recognize Bosnia’s state-level judiciary and has dismissed previous arrest attempts as illegitimate. He also remains adamant that he will not travel to Sarajevo for questioning. His refusal to cooperate with federal authorities has intensified the political standoff in Bosnia.
Previous Conviction and Political Fallout
In February, the Bosnian court convicted Dodik for ignoring decisions made by Christian Schmidt, the country’s international peace envoy. Although the verdict is not final and Dodik can appeal, it has added to the ongoing tension between Republika Srpska and the central government. Following his conviction, Dodik introduced laws aimed at limiting the authority of state-level security and judicial institutions within Republika Srpska. However, Bosnia’s Constitutional Court has temporarily suspended these measures.
EU Troop Reinforcement Amid Rising Tensions
The growing instability in Bosnia has prompted the European Union’s peacekeeping force, EUFOR, to announce an increase in troop numbers. This decision reflects international concern over the escalating crisis and the potential for further unrest. As the situation continues to develop, the international community is closely monitoring events in Bosnia.
