Dario Žurovac’s Immunity Not Lifted: Defamation or Political Protection?
Croatia is once again buzzing with controversy over political immunity. The Parliamentary Mandate and Immunity Commission (MIP) has rejected a private prosecutor’s request to lift the immunity of MP Dario Žurovac to initiate criminal proceedings for defamation. Is this yet another example of politicians using immunity as a shield from justice, or is it a protection of free speech?
What happened?
Dubravko Ponoš from the Energy Efficiency Foundation filed a request to lift Žurovac’s immunity due to statements he made in an April interview with the online portal Nacional. In the interview, Žurovac accused Ponoš of being a “grey eminence” pulling strings in the shadows, part of a clan around Davor Nađi and Gabrijel Deak, and having influence in Samobor.
Why was the request denied?
MIP Chairman Robert Jankovics explained that it is standard practice not to grant requests from private prosecutors to lift immunity from MPs, as criminal proceedings can only be initiated after the mandate ends. During the mandate, immunity protects MPs from prosecution, and the statute of limitations does not run.
Political background and consequences
The MIP decision still needs to be confirmed by a parliamentary vote but is already stirring controversy. Critics argue that this practice allows politicians to evade accountability and abuse immunity as a shield. Supporters say immunity is necessary to protect freedom of expression and allow MPs to perform their duties without hindrance.
What does this mean for justice and politics?
This case raises the question of where the line lies between free speech and responsibility for statements made. Will Žurovac be prosecuted after his mandate ends, or will the case be forgotten? And what does this say about transparency and accountability of politicians in Croatia?
Conclusion
While politicians shield themselves with immunity, ordinary citizens are left without justice. Is it time to change this practice, or is immunity a necessary evil? Share your thoughts — is Žurovac a victim of political censorship or a manipulator who should be held accountable?
Join the conversation, because politics without accountability is like coffee without caffeine — pointless!
