Rijeka Mayor Condemns Ustasha, Nazi Symbols at Procession; Archdiocese Distances Itself

Rijeka Mayor Iva Rinčić has strongly condemned the appearance of Ustasha and Nazi symbols during a procession celebrating St. Vitus Day. Speaking at a press conference, Rinčić declared the use of such symbols "absolutely unacceptable" in public spaces, especially during community gatherings. She emphasized that these symbols, associated with ideologies contrary to the fundamental values of Rijeka, Croatia, and Europe, have no place in contemporary society.

Rinčić, who personally participated in the procession, stated she did not witness the symbols herself but would have left immediately had she seen them. She was informed about the incident by Archbishop Mate Uzinić the day after the event. The Mayor reiterated that Rijeka stands firmly against all forms of extremism, hatred, and revisionism.

The Rijeka Archdiocese issued a statement acknowledging the incident and distancing itself from the offensive symbols. The Archdiocese clarified that banners and flags from associations and military units are not part of church processions and will be excluded from future St. Vitus Day protocols. They expressed regret that the inclusion of such flags led to the misuse of the event by individuals displaying inappropriate symbols, emphasizing that church processions are acts of faith, prayer, and community, not demonstrations.

In separate news, Rinčić announced that the city has rejected a request from the company Best In Parking to extend the construction deadline for the Zapadna Žabica complex. This project, intended to include a new bus station, parking garage, and commercial spaces, was due for completion on April 9. The company sought an extension until the end of October, but the city deemed the reasons provided insufficient.

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barjacima i zastavama udruga i vojnih postrojbi nije mjesto u crkvenim procesijama te ubuduće neće biti dio protokola procesije svetoga Vida.