Raguž initially criticized the short deadline for passing this law, stating that the consequences could be paid long-term. He emphasized that no one is against the Southern Interconnection project, but that a law conceived in this way raises more questions than it answers.
"I will stress that local government units and cantons are completely excluded, not only from the decision-making process but also from the process of protecting their basic rights that are guaranteed to them, not only by the Constitution but also by the law in local government units. I cited the Constitutional Court's decision in the case of Bosansko Grahovo, where the Constitutional Court overturned identical matters. The same could happen if this law is adopted in this manner—it could be struck down by the Constitutional Court. It is enough for just one local government unit to file a lawsuit with the Constitutional Court," said Raguž.
He emphasized that he sees no reason why the law should be adopted under an urgent procedure.
"Thus, in the case of adopting this law to the detriment of local government units, we could have a new Viaduct affair, we could have new arbitration affairs. It goes into such detail that the investor's name is included in the law," he stated.
He added that there is a whole series of questions, yet unconditional support is being demanded for "a law conceived in this way."
"I would not have a word of criticism if it were said, 'You must support this, you will come under the security umbrella of the United States.' Then don't use economic terminology with me. Don't talk to me about financial interests. Don't talk to me about revenues. So, the revenues are laughable. Over the entire concession period, the revenue is about 380 million marks. Don't mention economic interest to me, mention, be honest, that geopolitical interest—you will have both hands raised for that," he concluded.