In 2002, Bandić fled from the scene of a motor vehicle accident while under the influence of alcohol. He tried to bribe the officer who stopped him and threatened the officer with his alleged connections in the Ministry of the Interior. The incident was heavily covered by the media that asked for his resignation. Under public pressure, the SDP leadership compelled Bandić to resign. Bandić's resignation was confirmed by the Assembly on 31 January, but he remained in office until a new mayor was appointed. After his resignation, there was uncertainty concerning his successor; while the Zagreb SDP had the right to nominate the mayor, it was so dominated by Bandić that it was questionable who could replace him. On 1 March, Vlasta Pavić took over as mayor, while Bandić retained a place in the Zagreb chain of command as deputy mayor. He was eager to become the mayor again, and blocked Pavić's development plans while working toward an early election. In response, Ivica Račan tried to restrain Bandić's activities. The rules then in force would not allow Bandić to have a second term as mayor during the current term of the assembly. Although no early elections were held, he was once again elected mayor following the 2005 election, on 14 June.