Speaking at an event marking the 15th anniversary of the ruling party's establishment in Belisce, Glavas said he was expressing his personal view of Gotovina.
He said Gotovina "is just an unconvincing excuse by a small number of European political power wielders," and that it was a case of "traditional lack of sympathy by some individuals towards the Croatian issue".
Glavas said this lack of sympathy was a milder continuation of the policy which had not leaned towards Croatia's desire to become independent.
He went on to say that Gotovina was not a war criminal but a hero of the Homeland War. He voiced confidence the "monstrous attacks" on Gotovina would be refuted in court, either in Croatia or before an international court, which he added Croatia acknowledged because it wanted to be part of modern Europe.
Glavas said nothing would happen if Croatia's EU entry talks did not start on March 17. He added it was more important to open jobs and raise the living standard in preparation for the accession, which he said would occur in 2008 or 2009.