BiH marks Day of the Martyrs, tribute paid to Alija Izetbegovic in Sarajevo

Officials and citizens paid tribute by laying flowers, reciting Al-Fatiha, observing a minute of silence and in other ways honoring Alija Izetbegovic, the first chairman of the Presidency of the Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as all those who gave their lives defending Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Among those attending the ceremony were Husein Kavazovic, Grand Mufti (reis-ul-ulema) of the Islamic Community in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Denis Becirovic, the current chair of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, numerous family members of fallen fighters, and representatives of all levels of government, veterans’ associations and other organizations.

By a decision of the Riyasat of the Islamic Community in Bosnia and Herzegovina dated January 23, 1995, the second day of Eid was officially designated as the Day of the Martyrs in Bosnia and Herzegovina - a day of remembrance for all those who lost their lives defending their families, honor, homeland and faith.

The day is traditionally marked by visits to martyrs’ cemeteries, visits to the families of the fallen, prayers, and remembrance of their sacrifice.