As the trial of Republika Srpska President and Alliance of Independent Social Democrats (SNSD) leader Milorad Dodik approaches its final stage, tensions appear to escalate within the entity’s institutions. Republika Srpska officials have indicated they are prepared to take radical measures in response to any verdict issued in the case.

At a meeting in Banja Luka Monday night, officials expressed support for convening a session of the National Assembly of Republika Srpska (NSRS) board and for the entity government’s initiative to keep the assembly in continuous session. The decision, they stated, was prompted by the ongoing political climate and the “potentially harmful consequences” for Republika Srpska’s institutions due to what they described as “imposed decisions by the illegitimate High Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina.” These decisions, they argue, are the reason behind the legal proceedings against Dodik before the Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Officials also announced that all representatives of the Serb people and Republika Srpska at the state level, as well as employees of state institutions, would withdraw from their positions and suspend work if the trial results in a conviction.

The meeting was attended primarily by SNSD members and allied political figures. Just days earlier, Dodik reiterated that if convicted, “nothing will be the same,” suggesting that NSRS lawmakers would adopt measures aimed at seceding the entity from Bosnia.

The final hearing in Dodik’s trial is scheduled for Wednesday, February 19, when the prosecution and defence will present their closing arguments. Following these statements, the judicial panel has a three-day legal deadline to issue a verdict, though a decision could technically be made the same day or within a few more days, as permitted by law.

Dodik is on trial for failing to enforce decisions made by High Representative Christian Schmidt, whom Republika Srpska officials refuse to recognize as legally appointed. If convicted, Dodik could face a ban from holding public office, which the court could impose as a security measure while awaiting a final ruling on appeal.
Throughout the trial, Dodik has repeatedly stated that he would accept only an acquittal, warning of serious consequences otherwise.

“I want to thank all the good people who travel long distances to support us in this political trial before the Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina. NSRS has already declared that there is no valid confirmation of Schmidt’s appointment as High Representative. The only possible verdict is an acquittal. Any other decision is purely political. I am confident in the acquittal,” Dodik declared.

He dismissed accusations that he was exerting pressure on the Court’s decision, arguing that he was acting in line with Republika Srpska’s Constitution and did not recognize the authority of the High Representative.

“They enjoy saying that Dodik is on trial. If a guilty verdict is issued, Republika Srpska will respond as necessary. A political process will be met with a political response. I have demanded that all proceedings be conducted in my language and script. I will request a translator because I do not understand certain words. There are equal official languages, but that does not mean I must know them all. I identify as a Serb who speaks Serbian and writes in Cyrillic. I understand nothing else,” Dodik said, emphasizing his demand for a certified Serbian interpreter.

“I expect an acquittal based on the law. But if this turns into a political ruling, imagine what we will do. We are ready,” he warned.

The unfolding situation has raised security concerns, with Bosnia and Herzegovina’s law enforcement agencies urged to take these statements seriously and prepare for any potential radical actions.