Islamic Community raises concerns over campaign targeting Mostar mufti

In its statement, the IC called on media outlets, including independent and free media, to present facts to the public in an objective and professional manner rather than, as it said, providing a platform for what it described as tendentious and politically motivated campaigns conducted by individuals and interest groups.

According to the statement, the latest criticism forms part of an effort to influence public opinion and broader socio-political developments in Herzegovina by using the highest Islamic religious authority in the region for personal and party interests.

The IC argued that those accusing Mufti Dedovic of conducting a political campaign are themselves engaged in the most visible election campaigning through their public appearances.

The statement also recalls that the Islamic Community in Mostar, led by Mufti Salem Dedovic, has for more than a decade consistently raised concerns over what it describes as discrimination of Bosniaks, their marginalisation in decision-making processes, and the erosion of the principle of equality in Mostar and Herzegovina.

The IC said these issues should not be viewed as political characterisations but as facts reflected in the region's everyday social and institutional life.