A Croatian lawyer and politician who served as the 8th President of the Croatian Parliament, known for his role in shaping the country's government and legislation. He played a key part in Croatia's transition to democracy.
Boris Prem, a prominent Croatian politician, is best known for his remarkable tenure as the Speaker of the Croatian Parliament from 2011 to 2012, making him the first and only speaker to hold the position until his untimely death in office.
Born on April 14, 1956, in Koprivnica, Croatia, then part of Yugoslavia, Boris Prem embarked on a journey that would shape the country's political landscape. He pursued higher education at the University of Zagreb, where he studied law, laying the foundation for his future roles in public service.
Prem's political odyssey began with his appointment as the Chief of Staff of the Office of the President of the Republic from 2005 to 2007, during Stjepan Mesić's second term. This experience prepared him for his most notable role as the Speaker of the Croatian Parliament, a position he assumed on December 22, 2011, following the Social Democratic Party's (SDP) victory in the 2011 general election.
In addition to his parliamentary duties, Prem served as the president of the City Council of Zagreb and was a member of parliament for the SDP. His commitment to public service and dedication to the betterment of Croatia earned him widespread respect and admiration.
In 2010, Prem was diagnosed with cancer, which would eventually claim his life. Despite his illness, he continued to serve his country, undergoing surgery at the Zagreb Clinical Centre in June 2012. In August 2012, he traveled to Houston for further treatment at MD Anderson Cancer Center.
On September 30, 2012, Boris Prem passed away, leaving behind a legacy of selfless service and dedication to Croatia. He remains the only Speaker of the Croatian Parliament to die in office since the country gained independence in 1991.
The nation mourned the loss of Prem, with a ceremonial session of the Parliament held on October 4, 2012, attended by his family, former Prime Ministers, Ministers, Parliament members, and key religious figures. A gun salute was fired in his honor at Mirogoj Cemetery, where he was laid to rest.
Boris Prem's life and career serve as a testament to his unwavering commitment to public service and his nation. His leadership and vision continue to inspire Croatian politicians and citizens alike, ensuring his legacy endures for generations to come.
In the face of adversity, Boris Prem continued to serve his country, even in the midst of personal struggle. His selflessness and devotion to Croatia will forever be remembered and honored.
73 Years Old
A Croatian historian and politician who served as the 8th Prime Minister of Croatia, known for his role in the country's accession to the European Union and his later corruption scandal.
73 Years Old
Croatia's first female Prime Minister, serving from 2009 to 2011, known for her efforts to reform the country's economy and politics. She was also a prominent journalist and politician before taking office.
