The establishment of the Assembly of the Serb People in BiH 35 years ago was a historic decision that prevented a repetition of the tragic fate experienced by Serbs in previous wars, according to former President of the National Assembly of Republika Srpska Dragan Kalinić. He also called for efforts to restore powers that he believes have been taken away from Republika Srpska.
Speaking on the SRNA podcast marking the 35th anniversary of the establishment of the National Assembly of Republika Srpska, Kalinić reflected on the institution’s beginnings and its role in the political history of Republika Srpska.
“I believe our decision at that moment was historic. Perhaps we were not even fully aware of the weight and significance of that decision,” Kalinić said.
Kalinić recalls efforts to modernize the National Assembly
Kalinić also recalled efforts to modernize parliamentary procedures during his tenure as President of the National Assembly.
Among the changes was the introduction of a parliamentary gavel inspired by the British Parliament.
He noted that he first used the gavel during the inauguration of Biljana Plavšić as President of Republika Srpska.
Calls for a new constitution based on the Dayton Agreement
Kalinić believes the time has come for Republika Srpska to adopt a new constitution that would reaffirm the powers and rights recognized under the Dayton Peace Agreement.
“What was recognized as belonging to us in Dayton at the moment the agreement was signed should once again be included in the new constitution,” he emphasized.
He also referred to an initiative by the Association of the Creators of Republika Srpska, which proposes designating Banja Luka as the capital of Republika Srpska and Pale as its historic capital.
Kalinić highlighted the need to improve the efficiency of the Council of Peoples, restore internal political dialogue within BiH and preserve close ties with Serbia.
He stressed that younger generations should understand how Republika Srpska was established and how its institutions developed.
Political unity essential for protecting Republika Srpska’s institutions
Discussing the future of Republika Srpska, Kalinić emphasized that political unity on key national issues is essential for protecting its institutions.
He argued that such unity should transcend divisions between governing parties and the opposition.
According to Kalinić, political disagreements should not prevent representatives of different parties from reaching common positions on matters they consider vital to Republika Srpska’s constitutional status.
International pressure remains a challenge
Addressing international developments and foreign influence in BiH, Kalinić expressed the view that international pressure on Republika Srpska is unlikely to disappear.
However, he noted that today’s political circumstances differ significantly from the period when High Representatives imposed decisions that had far-reaching consequences for political life in Republika Srpska.
Kalinić concluded that preserving institutional stability, strengthening internal dialogue and maintaining political unity remain important priorities for the future of Republika Srpska.
Source: RTRS
