We are interested in their decisions. It is the policy of the High Representative not to accept as legitimate leaders those indicted for war crimes. Setting aside the question of how the war began, the Dayton Agreement provides clearly for different people to retain their identity within a unitary state. This is not an empty gesture - but one that implies important assistance and help. But as to who should represent any group, then no, the High Representative and the international community do not, of course, recognise indicted persons as legitimate leaders.
War crimes are too grave for such an acceptance.
This seems to be a week of special dates, on Thursday next, the international tribunal in The Hague is scheduled to open its hearings on dr. Karadzic and General Mladic. I'm told the if remember correctly the anniversary of the 1914 assassination in Sarajevo. Karadzic's candidacy at the head of a list of hard-line candidates, in this manner, heavy with symbolism, will be seen by us as an extraordinary further provocation and another foolish gamble directly contrary to the real interests of the Bosnian Serb people. Once again, and yet again, at issue here are concerns that go beyond the borders of Bosnia and indeed, of Europe.