RTRS’ controversial report on property purchases in Istocno Sarajevo sparks regulatory scrutiny

During the programme "Pecat," broadcast on 18 December 2025, presenter Nada Veletic stated that data shows hundreds of flats in Istocno Sarajevo, which located in the RS, have been purchased by Bosniaks from Sarajevo over the last decade. While noting that such transactions are legal, the report suggested that residents and officials in Istocno Sarajevo view this as a "dangerous trend."

The broadcast follows recent campaign rhetoric from Milorad Dodik, former President of Republika Srpska and leader of the Alliance of Independent Social Democrats (SNSD), who spoke of Bosniaks "spreading like amoebas" and buying property in the area. Dodik used the issue to criticise the local administration, led by the Serb Democratic Party (SDS) mayor.

In her introduction, Veletic referenced "dark images from the past," falsely claiming that residents of Istocno Sarajevo were previously forced to leave their homes in FBiH Sarajevo "because their Bosniak neighbours wanted it so." She added, "Today, those neighbours are rushing into their embrace; they want to live with, as they like to say, 'genocidal Serbs.' It remains a mystery why, or perhaps it is not a mystery, but a well-thought-out plan to grab hold of this part of Republika Srpska through real estate purchases."

The report, produced by journalist Gvozden Sarac, featured Istocno Sarajevo Mayor Ljubisa Cosic, who described the trend as dangerous, stating, "we could have a problem." Political scientist Filip Matic further alleged in the segment that this is a "strategic plan of the Bosniak political elite, occupying territory for potential future confrontations."

The RAK has confirmed to Detektor investigative portal that it has received individual complaints regarding the content. "The Communications Regulatory Agency will act ex officio in accordance with the Rulebook on the procedure for resolving violations of license conditions and regulations... and examine the allegations regarding the segment aired in the RTRS’ show 'Pecat'," the Agency stated.

Historically, the RAK has penalised RTRS for various rule violations. However, previous analysis by Detektor suggests a decrease in the number of fines since Drasko Milinovic, a former RTRS director, took over as head of the Agency.