Racan told a news conference that through the appointment of Hina's Steering Council and external members of the the HNB (National Bank) Council in parliament yesterday, the ruling HDZ demonstrated its wish to wield clout at the national news agency and at the central bank.
He also criticised the HDZ over attempts of what he said to take a grip on the media in Croatia.
In this context, Racan said that during the nomination and appointment of four members of Hina's Steering Council, the government and parliament violated legal criteria and democratic and professional standards.
In addition, external members of the HNB council were also appointed contrary to the law as no consultations were held among parliamentary parties on the nominees in question.
"This is a process which democratic forces in Croatia must not countenance," Racan said, adding that he is going to notify Croatian President Stjepan Mesic about what he called the "undemocratic behaviour of the HDZ". The SDP chief said he would probably meet Mesic later in the day.
With regard the appointment of the external members of the HNB council, the head of the parliamentary group of the HNS (Croatian People's Party), Dragutin Lesar, on Friday issued a press release condemning yesterday's procedure in the national parliament.
He writes that "such frivolous, irresponsible and manipulative behaviour" undoubtedly degrades the Sabor itself and damages the reputation and significance of the HNB, including all members of the council.
Lesar called on the newly-appointed external members to resign.
The opposition in parliament found fault with the procedure conducted before the appointment, given that no inter-party consultations were previously held.