Smolović: We express deep concern and disgust at the phenomena of the vampirization of Chetnik ideology

As a local government and as people who inherit civic, anti-fascist and European values, we express deep concern and disgust at the phenomena of the vampirization of Chetnik ideology, especially when such messages are sent by the management of institutions that have a direct impact on young people and the education system. Bijelo Polje is a city of anti-fascist tradition, coexistence and mutual respect, and it must remain so, announced today Petar Smolović, President of the Municipality of Bijelo Polje.

He stated this in a statement, reacting to videos that appeared on social networks, in which, as reported, the director of the Secondary Electroeconomic School in Bijelo Polje, Velibor Karličić, performs songs that glorify Chetnik ideology.

"Any glorification of ideologies based on hatred, division and historical crimes represents a direct attack on the values ​​on which contemporary Montenegro is based. We call on state institutions, primarily the Government of Montenegro and the Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation, to react urgently and responsibly and take a clear stance on this case. If, as is often emphasized, they are truly dedicated to the European and civic path of Montenegro, then there must be no selectivity when it comes to defending these values," said Smolović.

He said that the Municipality of Bijelo Polje, regardless of the political cost and even if it means obstruction, denial of support, or slowing down of projects by vengeful individuals, will remain consistent in defending the values ​​on which a modern, democratic society is based.

"In modern Europe, there is no place for vampiric, dark ideologies that divide society and take it backwards. Educational institutions and the people employed in them must be an example and a space of knowledge, tolerance and critical thinking, not a platform for the normalization of extremism in any form. The Municipality of Bijelo Polje will, as before, remain consistent with the anti-fascist heritage, civic character and European future of Montenegro," said Smolović.