Croatian gov’t minister resigns days after taking office

ZAGREB, Croatia — A Croatian government minister has been forced to resign only days after the new center-right Cabinet was formed following weeks of political deadlock.

Veterans Minister Mijo Crnoja stepped down late on Thursday following public scandals and opposition requests for his replacement. Prime Minister Tihomir Oreskovic says he will name the new minister in coming days.

Crnoja sparked outrage when he announced plans to form a “list of traitors and aggressors” from the 1991-95 war for independence. Media have also reported that Crnoja registered a false address to avoid paying taxes and that he had been jailed for violent behavior.

Crnoja said he was resigning to avoid being a burden.

Croatia’s new government is led by the conservatives. The country joined the EU in 2013.