(1 Aug 1996) Bosnian/Serbo-Croat/Nat
Traffic ground to a halt in the centre of Tuzla, in northern Bosnia on Wednesday, as hundreds of disabled veterans and families of soldiers killed fighting in the war protested about the government's failure to pay pensions.
Disability pensions and money for families of dead soldiers haven't been paid since last December and many are struggling to feed themselves.
Traffic came to a standstill in the centre of Tuzla as disabled Bosnian army veterans and families of soldiers killed in the war blocked the road.
They are calling on the government to keep promises about pensions and invalidity benefits.
They haven't received pensions for two months and many can no longer afford to eat.
This is the appalling legacy of the four and a half year war - young men maimed in their prime.
When they risked their lives for their country, they expected some sort of compensation once the fighting was over.
But most returned to nothing. Some had even lost their homes.
For others, their injuries prevent them working. And those who are able to often can't find work because of high unemployment.
Now they are determined they will be paid.
SOUNDBITE: (Bosnian)
We won't leave until we get our pensions.
SUPERCAPTION: Protestor
Last week, Bosnian President Alija Izetbegovic told protestors in the capital Sarajevo that they would receive two months back pension by today. But so far they haven't received anything.
One of the protesters explained to a waiting I-FOR driver that they wouldn't be moving.
Soon all the waiting drivers decided to turn round and find another route.
The protesters may have stood their ground against the traffic, but their financial demands have still to be met.
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