Round Statements, SafeJournalists: Threats against journalists, overreach of police authority

The SafeJournalists network expresses its concern for the recent statements of the General Director of Police Muhamet Rrumbullaku regarding the media coverage of the tragic death of a citizen in the city of Pogradec, following the concerns raised by the family about the delays in the arrival of the ambulance and the response of the police by leading to accusations of an incomplete investigation.

Through a statement, it is said that journalists reported on these concerns, putting pressure on the authorities to react.

"On August 14, 2024, Rrumbullaku accused journalists of spreading "fabrications and dirty accusations" against the State Police, calling their reports "deliberate disinformation". He announced that the State Police will take legal measures against individual journalists and users of social networks.

The SafeJournalists Network sees the threat of criminal charges against journalists and social media users for allegedly spreading misinformation as an overreach of police authority, blurring the line between law enforcement and judicial functions. The criminalization of journalistic reporting contradicts the principles and constitutional guarantees of free speech and freedom of the media. This effort could stifle independent journalism and undermine the media's role as a watchdog of government and public institutions.

Rrumbullak's remarks included a disturbing assertion that only the police's official version of the event should be considered credible, thus defying the essential duty of journalists to verify information through various sources. This stance, endorsed by Prime Minister Edi Rama, threatens to undermine the media's critical role in holding institutions accountable as well as providing the public with a full understanding of events. In a media landscape like Albania, where the practice of public officials distributing pre-prepared material (audio, video and text) to the media is widespread and where journalists have limited access to first-hand sources, the assertion that only official stories are reliable. is particularly disturbing

This situation poses a significant threat to media freedom in Albania, potentially leading to self-censorship and a weakened independent media. The SafeJournalists Network calls on the State Police to immediately withdraw the threats and stop the intimidation of journalists and social media users reporting on matters of public interest. We emphasize respecting the essential role of journalists in verifying information from various sources and informing the public independently. Furthermore, we demand compliance with judicial processes to address alleged disinformation in accordance with Council of Europe and EU standards," the statement said.

The SafeJournalists network stands in solidarity with the journalistic community in Albania and calls on all stakeholders, including national and international authorities, to protect media freedom and ensure that journalists can act independently without fear of legal reprisal.

The SafeJournalists network will continue to closely monitor this situation and advocate for the protection of journalists' rights and media freedom in Albania and beyond.

 

Pristina - Skopje - Sarajevo - Zagreb - Belgrade - Podgorica, August 15, 2024

Association of Journalists of Kosovo

Association of Macedonian Journalists

Association of Journalists of Bosnia and Herzegovina

Association of Croatian Journalists

Association of Independent Journalists of Serbia

Media Union of Montenegro