Croatian Deputy Prime Minister and Agriculture Minister Josip Dabro resigned on Sunday after the publication of a video showing him firing a gun from the window of a moving car.
Media reported that he announced his decision on social media. The official wrote:
“My personal situation should not distract the government and ministry from their priorities or delay necessary reforms.”
The Jutarnji List newspaper published a video clip showing Dabro, 42, firing several shots into the darkness at night from the passenger seat of a car, accompanied by loud music. The lights of a populated area can be seen in the distance.
Dabro, commenting on the incident, noted that the video was recorded several years ago and that the shooting involved the use of training rounds, which he said was to reduce the danger. However, such an explanation failed to calm the public and did not cancel out the negative reaction to his actions.
Public reaction
In response to the incident, the Croatian government issued an official statement characterising Dabro’s actions as ‘unacceptable and irresponsible’. Senior officials stressed that such behaviour was incompatible with the duties of a public servant and undermined confidence in the government.
The event attracted attention not only from local media, but also from international observers. Social networks were filled with comments from users, many of whom condemned such behaviour of the Deputy Prime Minister, considering it inappropriate for a person holding a high public office. In particular, a message was published on X stating:
“Deputy Prime Minister is filmed firing a gun in the vicinity of a populated area,” which emphasises public discontent.
The incident involving Josip Dabro was not only a personal tragedy for the politician, but also a serious blow to the image of the Croatian government, bringing additional tension to the country’s political environment. This case may have a long-term impact on the public perception of the authorities and their ability to ensure the safety of citizens.
