Miljanić: There have been no serious attacks on journalists in the last six months

Deputy President of the Commission, Minister Zoran Miljanić said that there have been no serious attacks on journalists in the last six months.

He said this at the Government session, speaking about the semi-annual report of the Commission for monitoring the actions of competent authorities in investigations of cases of threats and violence against journalists, murders of journalists and attacks on media property for the period from December 5, 2022 to June 23, 2023.

"During the work of this convocation of the Commission, all serious attacks received judicial epilogues. There are still heavy marks from the past, which especially refers to the murder of Duško Jovanović. We are satisfied with the work of the prosecutors, who are part of the Commission, but cooperation with the prosecutor's offices is not especially the level", said Miljanic.

He appealed to the Supreme State Prosecutor's Office and competent prosecutor's offices to take all measures so that all cases receive a legal epiulogue.

"It is not easy after 20 years, but cases like this do not become obsolete. We will make new recommendations, but it is up to the police and the prosecutor's office to take off their gloves, to listen to everyone who needs it, regardless of their position in the country," said Miljanić.

Prime Minister Dritan Abazović said that the atmosphere in Montenegro is not perfect when it comes to media freedom, but that "it is getting better and better".

"In connection with the old cases, specifically in connection with the murder of Duško Jovanović, some persons were questioned, we will also ask for international help," he said.

Commenting on the fact that the media broadcast Sky correspondence, he said that he "stands in defense of investigative journalists and their right to do their work in the context of protecting the public interest".

"And when it comes to journalist Olivera Lakić and Vijesti journalist Jelena Jovanović. The fact that some media bullies, and because of their criminal connections, forcefully push people to join politicians and journalists in one or another criminal group and that they do it from someone else, and not in the public interest, it is unacceptable for the Government. We provide full support to journalists and researchers to protect the public interest," Abazović said.