Political instability affects USK and Sandžak regions

political crisis constitutional court Bosniak political parties electoral coalition government formation

Political instability is affecting both the Unsko-sanski Canton (USK) in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Sandžak region.

In USK, Prime Minister Mustafa Ružnić and the Social Democratic Party (SDP) have criticized recent government changes as a ‘constitutional coup’ and an ‘unprecedented shame.’ The Constitutional Court of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina has temporarily suspended decisions regarding the dismissal and appointment of the USK government, following allegations of procedural violations during the formation of a new majority.

In the Sandžak region, political leaders are discussing potential cooperation for upcoming elections. Samir Lekić, president of the Sandžak Democratic Party (SDP), welcomed calls for dialogue between the three largest Bosniak parties—SDP, SDA Sandžak, and the Party of Justice and Reconciliation—to ensure a fair campaign. However, the Party of Future and Development (SBR) has criticized the Bosniak National Council (BNV) for not inviting them to these discussions, arguing that the BNV must represent all legitimate Bosniak political representatives to respect democratic pluralism.