Republika Srpska Day is a reminder of the historical determination of the Serb people to preserve their identity, freedom, and right to exist. Republika Srpska is the result of the people’s historical will and a guarantee of their survival in these areas, said Milorad Kojić, a member of the House of Representatives of the Parliamentary Assembly of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
“We must remain committed to protecting the constitutional position of Republika Srpska and strengthening its institutions, while respecting peace and stability. That is why it is important to remain united around Republika Srpska, to mark its anniversary, and to remember all the victims who gave their lives or parts of their bodies so that we may have freedom today — Republika Srpska,” Kojić told SRNA.
Kojić stressed that preserving Republika Srpska and its constitutional competences is a covenant for everyone.
January 9 is celebrated as Republika Srpska Day because on that date in 1992 it was established under its original name, the Republic of the Serb People in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Republika Srpska was founded by Serb members of the then Assembly of Bosnia and Herzegovina after they were outvoted on key issues concerning the survival of Yugoslavia, while representatives of the other two peoples moved toward secession against the will of the Serbs, who held the status of a constituent people.
The name Republic of the Serb People in Bosnia and Herzegovina was used until February 28, 1992, when the first Constitution was proclaimed, after which it was changed to Serb Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina. That name was used until August 12, 1992, when it became Serb Republic, and in September 1992 it was replaced by the current name — Republika Srpska.
Source: RTRS
