Bogic Bogicevic, a prominent Bosnian politician was named an Honorary Citizen of the central-Bosnian city of Zenica, on Saturday marking the Day of the City of Zenica, Fena news agency reported.

Thanking everyone for the award, He also expressed his gratitude to everyone who “built that city in the past 585 years,” and pointed out that “he thanks everyone who defended this city and their families during the war.”

“Recognitions are usually never sought after. But they are rarely refused. Never in my life have I done anything for any recognition and award. What’s more, everything I did, I did what I thought was right. Often, the things I did – did not meet with the approval of everyone. For some, it was not even illogical,” Bogicevic pointed out.

He also stressed he was aware of the fact that if one has a life and principled attitude, and “if one thinks with one’s own head, they can often lose their life or head.”

“Unfortunately, we live in such a time! But what is the alternative ?! The alternative is to bow your head in fear, to lose your human SELF, to lose your human dignity, and to be poisoned by hatred. If the choice is between these two, then I am always in favour of one staying upright, thinking with your own head and having an attitude, regardless of the price we pay and will pay,” said Bogicevic.

Bogicevic had served as a member of the Presidency of the former Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, representing the then Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina. After Bosnia's independence, he served as a member of the Parliament of Bosnia and Herzegovina.