Croatian HDZ Party Responds to 'Cattle' Insult from Rival Politician

Croatia's ruling Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ) party has fiercely responded to an alleged insult from Sandra Benčić, a prominent member of the Možemo! party. Benčić reportedly muttered the word 'stoka,' translating to 'cattle' or 'livestock,' directed at HDZ members during a session of the Constitutional Committee.

The HDZ, in a Facebook post, dismissed Benčić's alleged outburst, stating that if they are considered 'cattle,' then Saša Đujić of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), who reportedly agreed to include candidates for the Constitutional Court on the agenda, should also be labeled as such. The HDZ characterized Benčić's comment as vulgar and exclusive, suggesting it reveals how Možemo! treats its 'junior partners.'

Benčić later confirmed her remark, explaining it was a reaction to the HDZ's handling of candidates for the Constitutional Court. She stated that the party sent 17 candidacies the night before and scheduled the discussion for 9 a.m. the following day, implying a rushed and improper process. Benčić felt compelled to speak out against what she perceived as a political maneuver designed to be met with silence.

The HDZ's response framed Benčić's alleged insult as typical of her discourse, characterized by insults and lies, and expressed no expectation of an apology. The exchange highlights the contentious political climate in Croatia, particularly surrounding appointments to key judicial bodies like the Constitutional Court.

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Jesam. Rekla sam to. I odnosilo se na HDZ.