I`M Not A Monster, 70% Of Croats Would Do The Same

Josip Situm, who threw Molotov cocktails at a group of homosexuals, does not repent, not even after 14 months in prison.

Molotov cocktails which caused a real drama for the colourful Zagreb Pride procession in the summer of 2007 in Zagreb`s main square, did not conquer the defeated or the winners two years later, it seems.

While Zagreb Pride victoriously welcomes the verdict for hate crimes, the young man who was just released from prison after 14 months responds:

- I did what 70 percent of Croats would do, if they had the courage to do so! I don`t remember anyone who did not congratulate me –

Behind a stand which does no yield remorse, Josip Situm (26) says that there is no psychopath hiding, or a monster or a killer, but a regular Zagreb lad, who is not afraid to raise his voice against what he calls “egoistic exposure of a small groupation of people which doesn`t care about others, but only and exclusively for itself”.

Do they expect us to throw confetti as they strut in their parades?

- If they believe that they can rape this city with their sexual orientation in the spirit of democracy and freedom of life, why would others not be able to display their objection in the spirit of the same democracy? Well, do they expect us to throw confetti on them as they strut in their parades?! – Josip wonders.

On the other hand, we compare paper confetti and hot Molotov cocktails.

- My goal was to end that procession by throwing Molotov cocktails and try to make an impact so that they are no longer held, because they represent a disgrace for this society. Even though it was not my intention to seriously injure anyone, the verdict was passed as a precedent, i.e. as an example to others – Josip said.

We wanted to know how come such a young man was so intolerant towards homosexuals.

Being gay does not suite Christian ways

- I grew up in a Catholic family where directions in life exclusively follow dignity and what can serve as an example for others. Being a homosexual, insisting on same-sex marriages and adopting children is something that does not suit my point of view or religious beliefs. I believe that nobody`s, not even my own child, should not be exposed to such immoral surroundings. Also, I am a patriot who knows how to appreciate the sacrifice of my father and other fathers who shed blood for our freedom, and I now that there are too many disempowered and desperate people on the brink of poverty whose live their life humbly, they don`t harass anyone or parade in the city for their rights – Josip explained.

Still, 14 months of imprisonment does not seem like a reward. Is there any remorse after all?

- As far as gay activists are concerned – no. My position is still the same, except that today, after prison, I know that I can`t change the world. Still, I would like to apologise to all the people who were there by accident that day and who witnessed the incident – Josip said.

What will happen at the next Zagreb Pride?