Political Pressure or Threat?
Boris Bogdanović, head of the parliamentary club of Democratic Montenegro, doesn’t hold back from the parliamentary podium, accusing three media outlets – TV E, M Portal, and Portal Analitika – of being financed by criminal clans. Allegedly, journalists receive 8,000 euros per article to protect dirty policemen and officers. But where is the proof? There is none! This is not just political pressure; it’s a direct attack on the safety of journalists and media freedom in Montenegro.
Intimidation with Immunity
What’s especially alarming is that these accusations come from the Parliament, where MPs enjoy immunity and bear no responsibility for their words. Instead of using legal mechanisms like the right to reply or legal proceedings, Bogdanović abuses his public office to discredit and intimidate the media. This is not a fight for truth but an attempt to influence public opinion and discourage journalists.
Control of the Security Sector and Consequences
An even bigger problem is that Bogdanović’s party controls the security sector, so his messages are not just political pressure but can have serious consequences for the safety of the targeted media and journalists. The European Commission, Council of Europe, and European Parliament have clearly warned about such practices, yet they continue.
Call for Responsibility and Justice
The Media Self-Regulation Council calls on political actors to stop baseless accusations and use existing legal frameworks. If Bogdanović truly has information about criminal activities, he is obliged to report them to the state prosecutor, not judge the media from the parliamentary bench. Media freedom and journalist safety must be protected, and manipulation and intimidation must end.
Will Montenegro Allow Its Media to Be Blackmailed?
Such attacks are not just a local problem but a key challenge to democracy and freedom of expression in Montenegro. While politicians use immunity to spread false accusations, journalists remain targets, and the public is confused and scared. Will anyone stand up for truth and freedom? Or will we watch media slowly die under the pressure of the powerful?
If you have thoughts on this or are a journalist who has faced similar pressure, drop a comment below. Let the voices of those who refuse to be silenced be heard!
