Decades-Old Photo Links Dragan Čović to Communist Past

The Herzegovinian news portal Otpor.media recently shared an old photograph. The portal is known for its critical views on HDZ party politics. They claim the picture was taken in 1989 at the Tjentište Memorial Complex. It allegedly shows Dragan Čović, the current HDZ leader, with a delegation from the Communist Party of Yugoslavia. Officials from KOS-JNA were also reportedly present.

According to Otpor.media, the group laid wreaths at the memorial for those who died in the Battle of Sutjeska. This happened in 1989, a time when Franjo Tuđman had already founded the HDZ.

Otpor.media criticizes Čović. They highlight his past actions, such as visiting Tito’s grave. They say he now presents himself as a Croat advocate. However, they claim he was and remains a Yugoslav.

The portal also points out similar pasts for Čović’s close associates. These include Borjana Krišto, the current Chairperson of the Council of Ministers. Otpor.media states that many of Čović's colleagues were active in the former communist system. They were supporters of Josip Broz Tito and his regime. The portal suggests this shows hypocrisy. They believe Čović's life path is false. They accuse him of working for Yugoslavia and against Croats. The photograph from Tjentište is presented as evidence of this.