Jakov Jozinović to perform at Vinkovačke jeseni amid local controversy

The decision to have singer Jakov Jozinović perform at the 61st Vinkovačke jeseni festival in Vinkovci has sparked public controversy. Vinkovci Mayor Josip Romić confirmed the performance, stating that despite receiving complaints, the decision fulfills a major wish of many local citizens. Romić emphasized that the festival belongs to all citizens and aims to bring people together.

The complaints appear linked to Jozinović’s earlier concert at the SPENS hall in Novi Sad. Some veterans' groups had opposed his performance there, citing the hall's history as a site where Croatian prisoners were held during the 1991 war.

Josip Dabro, a member of the Croatian Parliament, has publicly supported the singer. Dabro argued that Jozinović’s success should be a source of pride for Vinkovci and Slavonia, stating, “The more our people succeed across the border, the more visible and stronger we are as Croatia.” He encouraged the community to support the young artist rather than opposing him based on musical taste or past controversies.