Konakovic: SIPA dispute and 'Viaduct' case require international intervention

Konakovic described the situation surrounding SIPA and the broader judicial and security system in BiH as deeply politicised, claiming that “the fingerprints of politics” are clearly visible. He also criticised Chief Prosecutor Milorad Kajganic for dissolving investigative teams handling some of the country's most high-profile cases.

“To gain our support for any SIPA appointment, a candidate must pledge loyalty to the institutions, Constitution, courts and prosecutors of BiH, not to political commands,” he said. “From our side, there is still no readiness to resolve this issue.”

Konakovic commented on the appointment procedure for Dragan Andric, stressing that BiH needs a SIPA chief who a phone call cannot stop from Milorad Dodik. “We will support only those who respect court and prosecutorial orders – not political parties.”

He also referenced the unresolved legal status of Darko Culum, who reportedly resigned, though his resignation was not officially accepted. Culum has since taken a post as advisor to the RS police director and has not returned to work at SIPA.

“He was simply called by Dodik and moved elsewhere. Once everything is legally clarified, we’ll consider giving support,” Konakovic added.

On the BHANSA agency and the Viaduct case, Konakovic said that the RS Finance Minister, Srdjan Amidzic, had failed to present an acceptable solution. He said the RS insists that the Federation cover most of the arbitration ruling costs, even though the Republika Srpska will ultimately bear the financial burden.