Bečić: The act of irresponsible individuals cannot possibly represent the face of Zabjelo, Podgorica and Montenegro

"Zabjelo is one of the most beautiful settlements in Podgorica, recognizable for its civic, cosmopolitan spirit and people who have lived in harmony for decades, in mutual respect and diversity, which has always been our wealth. Therefore, as we all know very well, the act of irresponsible individuals cannot possibly represent the face of Zabjelo, Podgorica and Montenegro," said Deputy Prime Minister and leader of the Democrats Aleksa Bečić, condemning the interruption of the screening of the film "Roda" at the Džada Festival in that Podgorica settlement.

Bečić added that the Džada Festival, as a space for art, culture and dialogue, has grown into a symbol of inclusivity, togetherness and tolerance, and as such deserves full support and protection.

"Albanians in Montenegro are not 'other and different', they are our neighbors, friends and comrades in everyday life. Our national, religious and cultural differences are not a weakness, but a strength that makes us a richer and better society. This is our future, not a space for divisions, primitivism and a return to the destructive patterns of the past."

"After establishing the facts, the competent institutions, as in other cases, will announce all known circumstances of this case, in accordance with the law, and the public condemnation of all of us is a message that the aforementioned behavior of irresponsible individuals is absolutely unacceptable," said the Deputy Prime Minister.

Therefore, he adds, the message must be clear, individuals cannot and will not, with their actions, violate the spirit of Zabjelo, the spirit of Podgorica and the spirit of Montenegro. "Our society is much bigger, stronger and more valuable than the attempts, which come from various sides," concluded the Deputy Prime Minister.