During the local elections in Kosjerić, journalists from several media outlets were blocked inside the municipality building by opposition supporters known as blockers. They prevented journalists from leaving the building, and some were physically attacked, including being slapped and having mobile phones damaged. Police were present and protected the building but did not prevent the incidents. Meanwhile, opposition media reported on the elections without hindrance. Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić announced that the SNS party achieved victory in Zaječar and Kosjerić, although the result in Kosjerić was close. This event drew attention due to attacks on journalists and tensions during the counting of election materials.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning outlets emphasize the attack on journalists as a serious violation of press freedom and democratic norms. They highlight the physical violence against journalists and criticize the authorities for not adequately protecting media workers. The narrative often frames the incident as part of broader political repression and intimidation tactics by ruling party supporters.
Center: Centrist sources report the facts of the blockade and attacks on journalists, focusing on the sequence of events and the presence of police. They provide balanced coverage by noting the opposition supporters’ actions and the ruling party’s election victory, without strong editorializing. The emphasis is on the tension and challenges during the election process.
Right: Right-leaning media tend to downplay the severity of the attacks on journalists or frame the incident as isolated and provoked by opposition supporters. They emphasize the victory of the ruling SNS party and portray the opposition as disruptive. The narrative may suggest that the media targeted were aligned with opposition interests and that the situation was exaggerated by critics.
