Stjepan Mesic, 91, Appears in Public Using Cane
Former Croatian president Stjepan Mesic made a rare public appearance in Zagreb at 91, using a cane as he continues to recover from an Achilles tendon injury.
Illustration: AI-generated image
Stjepan Mesic, the second president of Croatia, made a rare public appearance in Zagreb on Tuesday evening at the age of 91. He attended the launch of the book 100 znamenitih Srba u Hrvatskoj (100 Notable Serbs in Croatia), organised by the Serbian National Council.
Mesic, who has kept a low profile in recent years, sat in the front row during the event. He used a cane to walk, something he has done since suffering a ruptured Achilles tendon about two years ago. The injury occurred while he was mowing the lawn and required surgery. His recovery was lengthy, and for a period after the operation he used a wheelchair.
The former president served two terms in office, from February 2000 to February 2010. He was married to Milka Mesic for over six decades until her death in 2024 at the age of 85. The couple had two daughters, Sasa and Dunja.
The book presentation was held in Zagreb and was attended by members of the Serbian community and other guests. The book profiles 100 notable Serbs who have contributed to Croatian society, reflecting the shared history of the two communities. The Serbian National Council is a non-governmental organisation that represents the interests of the Serb minority in Croatia. Mesic's presence drew attention from Croatian media, given his infrequent public appearances.
