DODIK: WE HAVE THE RIGHT TO BROAD AUTONOMY

BANJA LUKA, AUGUST 18 /SRNA/ – The President of the Republika Srpska Milorad Dodik stated today in Banja Luka that the Serb people in BiH have the right to self-determination, which is also guaranteed by the UN Charter, and that a declaration on this matter will be adopted in Republika Srpska.

"The quasi-order in BiH forces us to break free from slavery and gain freedom. Everyone should know that we will choose freedom," Dodik said at a press conference.

He emphasized that everything will be carried out in accordance with the Charter on Freedom.

"The constituent people have the right to self-determination. One of the peoples in BiH is the Serb people, and in the upcoming period we will adopt a declaration in which we will clearly state this," Dodik announced.

He stated that everyone together in Republika Srpska must preserve the Constitution and Republika Srpska as a symbol of freedom.

"If we do not gain respect, we will seek freedom. We are for peace, and freedom is sought through a referendum. We will know how to secure freedom and defend it as it should be defended. That is our message. Return us to the Dayton Agreement and the position of the Geneva–New York framework," Dodik said.

He added that Republika Srpska is not threatening anyone, and that this is the core message.

"This is today's statement, and tomorrow our policy means the National Assembly, a referendum at the end of September, a new government, and a declaration on self-determination. The people will make the best decisions. They attack democracy, all achievements, and the possibility of self-determination, which we have a right to under the UN Charter. We will exercise this right and will not back down," Dodik said.

He noted that after September everything will be translated into laws, which will mean a return to the constitutional positions belonging to Republika Srpska.

"After that, and no later than 90 days, we will hold a referendum on our status. We are not threatening anyone, and everyone should know that," Dodik said.