Oleg Butković, the Croatian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Sea, Transport, and Infrastructure, has recently spoken out against the prohibition of performances by the controversial singer Marko Perković Thompson. In an appearance on Radio Herceg-Bosna, Butković emphasized that the songs of Thompson, particularly those associated with the Croatian War of Independence, do not pose a threat to society or the constitutional order of Croatia. This statement reflects a significant perspective in ongoing debates about national identity and cultural expression in Croatia.

Butković's comments came in response to concerns raised by opposition figures regarding divisions in Croatian society and the appropriateness of Thompson's music, which some associate with nationalistic sentiments. He pointed out that Thompson's songs were celebrated during the war when the nation was in a critical state, suggesting that rather than being divisive, they should be seen as part of the historical narrative of Croatian resilience. Butković noted the popular support for Thompson, particularly referencing the support among Croatian handball players for his performance, which underscores a broader acceptance of Thompson’s cultural contributions within certain segments of society.

Critically, Butković condemned the political stance of banning Thompson's concerts, arguing that such actions only exacerbate societal divides rather than fostering unity. His stance highlights a conflict within Croatian political discourse, where issues of nationalism, cultural heritage, and the freedom of expression are at the forefront of political discussions, indicating that the implications of such music and its reception are intricately tied to the nation’s ongoing journey toward reconciliation and identity construction in a post-war society.