UHBDDR VIEWS PRESIDENT MESIC'S DECISION AS HASTY

ZAGREB, Oct 1 (Hina) - The association of Croatian volunteers-war veterans of the Homeland Defence War (UHBDDR) has assessed that the letter of 12 Croatian generals did not encroach on politics but that its intention was to try alleviate the tension and preserve values of the Homeland War. This association also maintains that Croatian President Stjepan Mesic's decision to retire seven active generals out of those 12 signatories was too hasty and that it would be good to reconsider it. "Talks should have been conducted and after that disciplinary procedure should be undertaken if there are elements and facts indicating that they (generals) have failed to respect the law on the service with Croatia's Armed Forces," read a statement issued by the UHBDDR on Saturday. The association admits that the President's decision is his constitutional right, but believes that he should reconsider it taking into account all the facts in view of that those generals created the Republic of Croatia and that they recognise the democratically elected authorities, the statement read. The association holds that any well-meaning and true veteran would sign the text of the letter which the 12 Generals forwarded on Thursday. (hina) ms