In my opinion, farmers’ protests should only be considered as a last resort in solving problems, and the Croatian village has addressed most of its issues through tractor rallies. That is simply not my way, said Željko Mavrović at a press conference where he explained the reasons for his resignation as president of the Croatian Peasant Party (HSS).
In the past year, the HSS, under the leadership of the former boxer, participated in all discussions about the Croatian village, and today the newly established Croatian Agricultural Chamber should take over the role of the HSS. Mavrović was not elected to that chamber, which is part of the reason for his resignation. Conflicts with other farmers’ associations and individuals did not help either. There was no receptiveness to my ideas about village development. I came to contribute something, but there was no one to receive it. I apologize to everyone I have come into conflict with, Mavrović said. He does not give up on his ideas for village development and believes that the village will have to change in the next few years. Hope that things will improve has been given to him by the young HSS members, whom he believes could one day initiate changes in the village. His resignation also marks the end of Mavrović’s political career. According to his own words, he does not feel defeated but believes he has gained new and important life experience. (Ante Livajić)
