Tomislav Jonjić, a lawyer and historian, has taken a public stance against claims made by historian Hrvoje Klasić regarding the late Father Josip Astaloš, who was executed by communist authorities in 1945. In a television program titled 'Karte na stol', Klasić alleged that Astaloš had been convicted for 'baptizing Orthodox Christians', a statement Jonjić firmly denies, arguing that it contradicts both the legal documents concerning Astaloš's case and fundamental theological principles upheld by the Catholic Church.

Jonjić expressed his astonishment that a university lecturer specializing in 20th-century history would propagate such inaccuracies, noting that Klasić’s assertions lack any basis in the actual indictment or judgment against Astaloš. He emphasized that the notion of 'baptizing Orthodox Christians' is nonsensical within the context of Catholic doctrine, which acknowledges baptisms performed in other Christian denominations. This point underscores the broader issue of misinformation in historical discourse, particularly concerning sensitive topics like religious persecution under communist regimes.

The public dispute has wider implications, as it connects to ongoing efforts by groups such as Documenta and the Workers' Front to rename a street after Astaloš, prompting local residents to initiate a petition. This reflects a contentious debate over historical memory and the legacies of individuals associated with controversial pasts, specifically concerning how they are commemorated in public spaces.