Radovan Kovacevic, a delegate in the Serb Caucus of the House of Peoples of Bosnia and Herzegovina, stated that Judge Sena Uzunovic has an opportunity to remain impartial, as the alleged orchestrator of the ruling, former US Ambassador Michael Murphy, has permanently left Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Commenting on the trial against Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik and the acting director of the Official Gazette before the Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kovacevic emphasized that Judge Uzunovic has a significant chance to uphold the constitutional order, law, and justice.

“This political persecution is an attack on the Constitution and the constitutional order,” Kovacevic said.

He argued that prosecuting someone for acting in accordance with the Constitution equates to prosecuting Republika Srpska and its citizens.

“They are judging our right to elect our own leaders. This means that we have no rights at all. The president of Republika Srpska is being prosecuted for fulfilling his constitutional duties. Republika Srpska will respond to this,” Kovacevic stated.

He warned that the response would be clear and radical.

“Republika Srpska will have a decisive and radical response. We previously mentioned the existence of options A and B, with the second being radical. This trial is about prosecuting a president for carrying out his constitutional obligations. He represents Republika Srpska’s state unity. If you prosecute someone for fulfilling their constitutional duties, then you are prosecuting all citizens,” Kovacevic told RTRS.

He further falsely claimed that the goal of the trial was the dissolution of Republika Srpska.

Background: Political pressure on judiciary

In the days leading up to the verdict, politicians close to Milorad Dodik and his party have intensified media pressure on Judge Sena Uzunovic. Their statements contain warnings of radical responses should Dodik be convicted. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has also exerted pressure on Bosnia and Herzegovina's judicial institutions.

Milorad Dodik himself has repeatedly threatened secession and outlined various contingency plans should he be found guilty.