THE CONCERT THAT ENRAGED THE MAYOR!
Zagreb hosted a massive concert by Marko Perković Thompson at the Hippodrome, sparking a huge controversy! Mayor Tomislav Tomašević did not hold back – while the concert went off with no major logistical issues and several medical interventions, he announced that such events will no longer be allowed on city-owned properties.
Logistics and Safety Put to the Test
More than nine city services, including firefighters, emergency medical teams, police, and municipal services, were mobilized to ensure the event ran smoothly. Despite the infrastructure holding up, numerous risks emerged, and the mayor made it clear that massive concerts with over 25,000 attendees will no longer be permitted on city venues like the Hippodrome.
Political Storm Over Ustasha Salutes
The biggest issue was not just logistics but the political dimension of the concert. Ustasha salutes were used during the event, which outraged Tomašević. He emphasized that most attendees did not support the Ustasha regime, but it is unacceptable for such salutes and symbols to appear at public events. The police failed to adequately respond to Ustasha songs sung in downtown Zagreb the day before the concert, further angering the mayor.
Reactions from Authorities and Society
According to Tomašević, the Speaker of Parliament and the Government did not properly condemn these incidents, disappointing many citizens. Even a parliamentary representative ended his speech with an Ustasha salute, and the Speaker refused to reprimand him. Tomašević reminded that the Constitutional Court has already declared the Ustasha salute unconstitutional.
What’s Next?
The mayor announced plans to limit commercial events on city properties, primarily for the safety and quality of life of citizens. Organizers will also bear the costs of cleaning and road closures. While he allowed Ed Sheeran’s concert, he stressed that massive concerts with over 25,000 people will be a thing of the past while he is in office.
To Ban or Not to Ban?
It is still legally unclear whether the number of attendees can be limited on private properties, but it is possible on city-owned venues. Tomašević made it clear he will fight against historical revisionism and normalization of unconstitutional behavior.
Conclusion
This concert highlighted how difficult it is to balance freedom of expression, safety, and respect for laws and social norms. While the mayor is determined, it remains to be seen how the situation will evolve and whether Zagreb will truly become a city without massive commercial concerts.
What do you think about banning large concerts and the authorities’ reaction to Ustasha salutes? Drop a comment, let the people’s voice be heard!
