Television of BiH Condemns Vukanović's Pressure on Editors and Management of BHT1, and Elek's Threats to Zvonko Komšić

(Patria) - Television of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BHT1) condemns the pressure on editors and management of BHT1 by Nebojša Vukanović, president of the List for Justice and Order, following yesterday's appearance on the show Jutro za sve on BHT1, as well as the statement by Nedeljko Elek, president of the Supervisory Board of OC Jahorina, which can be interpreted as a threat to the show's editor Zvonko Komšić.

"Pressure on employees of the public media service, as well as journalists in general, is an unacceptable practice, because the fundamental role of the public service is to ask questions of public interest, without fear, without favoritism, and without political pressure. In this context, every appearance on our program implies a readiness to answer questions that may be uncomfortable, especially when it comes to public figures and political actors.

Freedom of expression, including the right of journalists to ask questions and conduct interviews in the public interest, cannot be a reason for pressure, conditioning, or demands for sanctions. Any attempt to exert such pressure on journalists and editors because of a spoken word or a question asked represents a serious blow to media freedom and editorial independence," is the message from BHT1.

"They condemn Vukanović's demands and statements directed at editors, the editorial team, and the entire BHT1 program. Such actions create an atmosphere of pressure and self-censorship, which is unacceptable in any democratic society. BHT1 will continue to work professionally in the public interest, respecting every guest equally regardless of gender, nationality, or political affiliation. Nebojša Vukanović has the right to file a complaint about our work with the competent Communications Regulatory Agency of Bosnia and Herzegovina," conclude from BHRT.