Due to founded suspicion of committing corrupt criminal acts, former mayor of Pag Ante Fabijanić and four other persons were arrested. They are suspected of rigging contracts and bypassing public procurement to favor certain companies. Fabijanić was the HDZ candidate in local elections but lost to independent candidate Stipe Žunić. The arrest sparked reactions in local politics, with HDZ clearly supporting the current mayor. Police and USKOK are conducting an investigation and gathering evidence.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning reports emphasize the systemic nature of corruption in local politics and criticize the HDZ party’s involvement and support for controversial figures. They highlight the need for transparency and accountability in public office and often frame the arrest as part of a broader struggle against entrenched political corruption.
Center: Center-leaning reports focus on the facts of the arrest and the ongoing investigation, presenting a balanced view of the political dynamics in Pag. They report on the electoral context, the candidates involved, and the procedural aspects of the case without strong editorializing, emphasizing the rule of law and due process.
Right: Right-leaning reports tend to defend the HDZ party and its candidates, sometimes portraying the arrest as politically motivated or premature. They emphasize the support HDZ has for the current mayor and may downplay the allegations, focusing on the party’s achievements and the importance of stability and continuity in local governance.
