SEP: We condemn any illegal behavior, our member cannot be someone who acts outside the law

"We strongly condemn any form of illegal behavior, regardless of whether it involves a member of our party or any other citizen," said the Party of European Progress (SEP), reacting to "Vijest" that Nikola Čvorović, the leader of the SEP list in the last elections in Nikšić, was arrested for robbery.

The SEP said that they learned about Čvorović's arrest from the media.

"SEP advocates zero tolerance for breaking the law. Anyone who acts outside the law cannot be part of our political community. Political life in the Party of European Progress is free and open, but this freedom also implies personal responsibility. If our member made a mistake, he did so solely as a citizen who represented himself, not the Party. As such, he will be held accountable for his actions independently, before the competent authorities.

"We will not and cannot protect anyone who violates the values ​​we stand for. Citizens' trust is the foundation of our political action, and it must be above the interests of individuals. Therefore, procedures will be initiated to determine internal party responsibility, in accordance with the Statute," the party said in a statement.

On the other hand, the SEP said that they would not comment on "unworthy, immoral and labeling statements that are being placed for the sake of daily political gain, by political hypocrites."

"They say more about their authors than about us. The Party of European Progress remains consistent with the principles of accountability, transparency and the rule of law. We offer citizens truth, legality and consistency – and we will not give that up, under any circumstances."

"We believe that citizens recognize the difference between principle and manipulation, and that trust is built precisely through difficult but correct decisions," the statement concludes.