The local HDZ branch expressed strong dissatisfaction that the central square in the capital remains without any Croatian flags on the eve of Victory and Thanksgiving Day. The party, in a statement issued on Tuesday, stated that the situation on Trg Bana Jelačića is shameful, particularly given that the moment marks key dates from the Homeland War.
Today, 4 August, marks the anniversary of the Operation Storm, which, 31 years ago, marked the start of the liberation of occupied areas at dawn. Despite the significance of this historical event, no Croatian flag is currently flying on the main square, a situation the HDZ has described as a lack of due respect for the state.
In its critique, the HDZ directly attributes the absence of symbols to the Zagreb city administration led by Mayor Tomislav Tomšević, the Možemo! platform, and their coalition partners from the SDP. The party argues that the city administration has neglected the duty to mark state holidays, while simultaneously being willing to use public spaces to promote its own ideological and political messages.
The HDZ further emphasises that this stance by the city administration reflects a deep alienation from the feelings of citizens. Tomorrow, Croatia will officially celebrate Victory and Thanksgiving Day and the Day of Croatian Defenders, with the party considering the absence of public recognition of these values in the central urban space unacceptable.
