West Herzegovina County holds public forum on privatization and return of HT, Elektroprivreda assets

A public forum was convened in the assembly of West Herzegovina County (Županija Zapadnohercegovačka) to examine the region's privatization process and the handling of public assets. The meeting was organized by county representatives Antonija Banožić and Tomislav Bandić and attracted a sizable audience of local citizens.

Speakers criticised the Agency for Privatization of West Herzegovina County for its limited activity in recent years, its reliance on budget funds for operating costs, and the lack of transparent information on sold enterprises, buyers, prices, and the fate of workers. They highlighted cases such as the former Ukraskamen stone quarry, tobacco kiosks, and bauxite mines, arguing that many privatizations failed to generate promised investments or jobs and instead led to disputes and asset loss.

A central issue was the demand to return ownership shares in the telecommunications company HT and the electricity provider Elektroprivreda HZ HB to the municipalities and towns of the county. Participants called for the immediate opening of documentation, clearer reporting, and accountability to ensure that public wealth remains under the control of the citizens it serves.