A Croatian who was detained for opening his gym despite restrictions implemented by the coronavirus pandemic has become a symbol of resistance for thousands of small business owners who protested against the Croatian government’s lockdown measures on Wednesday.
Crowds chanted Andrija Klaric’s name during the protest in central Zagreb, demanding the resignation of the Croatian Economy Minister and describing the policies of the center-right government as “discriminatory”.
Small business owners said they have been plagued by the government’s decision made about three months ago to close businesses such as bars, restaurants and gyms to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Holding signs with phrases such as “Let us work” or “Enough is enough,” protesters demanded Wednesday that they be allowed to work while respecting social distancing and hygiene measures.
Klaric spoke at the protest and told the crowd that “what has brought us together is making (the authorities) realize that they cannot take away our freedom.”
A few days ago, Klaric opened the doors of his gym to clients to protest against the government’s shutdown measures. A short time later, the police arrived and arrested him, in addition to closing his business.
Klaric’s arrest caused annoyance among others in Croatia who have struggled during the pandemic, and came to symbolize what many consider to be unfair measures to control the virus, which they say affect ordinary people and small businesses. .
Croatian businessmen complained that the government is not treating all people the same and that it is not doing enough to reduce the pressure on small businesses during the outbreak.
Police have said that Klaric could face charges of “spreading infectious diseases”, which carries a prison sentence.
So far, Croatia has registered more than 230,000 confirmed coronavirus cases and 5,088 deaths.
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