Local official, Šimić's friend, and attacker of referee: Who is Marin Mikšić, alleged mediator in camp affair?
Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Croatian politician and businessman Marin Mikšić is under investigation for allegedly acting as a mediator in a corruption case involving illegal camps.
- Mikšić is suspected of connecting Neda Livljanić, a former county official, with former Croatian footballer Dario Šimić.
- The case involves allegations that Livljanić issued permits for Šimić's camps despite the land not meeting required conditions.
Marin Mikšić, a prominent figure in Vodice's political, sports, and business circles, is reportedly being investigated as a suspected intermediary in a case involving illegal campsites. Mikšić, who has served as deputy mayor and president of the Vodice City Council, is alleged to have connected former Croatian national football player Dario Šimić with Neda Livljanić, a former county official and a key figure in the ongoing investigation.
Investigators are examining whether Mikšić facilitated communication between Šimić and Livljanić concerning permits for two camps on the island of Murter. Livljanić is already facing charges in a separate case for issuing permits for these camps, which prosecutors claim did not meet the necessary legal requirements. While details of the specific allegations against each individual are still emerging, media reports suggest Mikšić is considered the link between Šimić and Livljanić.
According to unofficial information, the suspicion is that Livljanić, during 2020 and 2021, issued permits for Šimić to operate domestic tourism camps, even though parts of the land were allegedly outside designated construction zones and failed to meet other criteria. It remains unclear whether Mikšić merely introduced Šimić and Livljanić or actively participated in subsequent communications, document submissions, or the permit acquisition process. There is also no information yet on whether he sought or received any compensation for his alleged role.
Mikšić, a long-time influential member of the Croatian Peasant Party (HSS) in the Šibenik-Knin County, holds significant positions within the party, including vice president and member of the Presidency. He also serves as a councilor in the Šibenik-Knin County Assembly. Following his arrest, the HSS announced it would discuss political responsibility and is expected to propose that Mikšić's party functions and representation rights be suspended until the legal proceedings conclude.
Originally published by Večernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.