REPUBLIKA SRPSKA CELEBRATES REPUBLIC DAY

Republic Day, January 9, was marked by numerous events and ceremonies across Republika Srpska.

PHOTO: Velibor Tripić

On the occasion of Republic Day and the third day of Christmas, dedicated to Saint Stephen the First Martyr and Archdeacon, a Holy Hierarchical Liturgy was held at the Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Banjaluka. The liturgy was officiated by Serbian Patriarch Porfirije.

Following the religious service, wreaths were laid in cities throughout Republika Srpska in honor of fallen soldiers of the Army of Republika Srpska. A ceremonial parade was also held at Krajina Square in Banjaluka as part of the official program.

January 9 is celebrated as the Day of Republika Srpska because on that date in 1992 it was established under its original name, the Republic of the Serb People in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Republika Srpska was founded by Serb representatives in the then Assembly of Bosnia and Herzegovina after they were outvoted on key issues related to the survival of Yugoslavia, while representatives of the other two constituent peoples moved toward secession against the will of the Serb population, which held constituent status.

The name Republic of the Serb People in Bosnia and Herzegovina was used until February 28, 1992, when the first Constitution was proclaimed and the name was changed to the Serb Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina. This designation remained in use until August 12, 1992, when it was shortened to the Serb Republic, before being replaced in September 1992 by its current name — Republika Srpska.