Croatian National Theatre Mostar disputes Mostar Muftiate religious decree

The Croatian National Theatre (HNK) in Mostar has issued a statement regarding a legal submission made by the Mostar Muftiate to the Municipal Court in Mostar. The submission included a 'fetva' (religious decree) issued by Mostar Mufti Salem Dedović.

The HNK contends that the decree and the subsequent legal actions are attempts to obstruct the construction of the Croatian National Theatre building and to expand the religious and political influence of the Muftiate. The theatre's legal representative has challenged the Muftiate's claims, which suggest that the religious decree is binding upon all public authorities, including judges.

The Mostar Muftiate has responded to media and public scrutiny by accusing journalists of malicious interpretation and claiming that public reactions are intended to pressure the court. The HNK characterizes these responses as a manipulation of facts regarding the legal and political context of the theatre's construction and the related 'Lakišić harem' issue.