Minister Nuhodžić: Through the acting of the institutions Montenegro will strongly and decisively prevent every attempt of violence

These days, we are witnessing unpleasant scenes that do not do justice to the honour or the tradition of Montenegro, nor its international reputation. I believe that there is no political issue that cannot be resolved in a civilized way. After all, we are on the threshold of new elections, so those who are the most relevant ones- our citizens - will give their opinion on everything.
The rules of democracy and elections are clear: it is a game in which we cannot all win, but all of us, as responsible people, must respect those rules and the position of the majority. Hatred and extremism of any kind cannot bring good to anyone. At least we in this area have experienced well where the dark paths of nationalist ideologies lead.
That is why I call upon all actors to work towards calming tensions. I remind everyone that Montenegro has its own institutions, its own legal regulations that not everyone has to like, but they must oblige us all equally. Let us prove that we are ready to resolve disagreements democratically, respecting the institutions.

On this occasion as well, I clearly say that Montenegro will strongly and decisively prevent any attempt at violence through the actions of institutions. The role of the Police Directorate is to ensure public order and peace. Let's respect their function and legally defined competencies. The human rights of all citizens guaranteed by the Constitution cannot be endangered by irresponsible individuals and groups. Let us remember even in these moments the fundamental values of our common state of Montenegro and its multiethnic being.

Unfortunately, the result that brought Montenegro to the ranks of the countries that fought the corona virus most successfully is already undermined today.
Special responsibility lies with the organizers of public gatherings at which the measures adopted by the profession are obviously not respected. This approach to the organization of the litanies does not favor the preservation of the health of citizens, nor the affirmation of religious postulates - that the life and health of every person come first.

How to explain different calls to believers to gather regardless of the recommendations of health authorities, endangering themselves and others. These calls are not an expression of responsibility. On the other hand, the messages sent from these gatherings often do not contribute to spreading the spirit of peace and tolerance. On the contrary! At the same time, the civic concept of a multicultural Montenegro and the character of a secular state are forgotten. It can all be a way back.
Therefore, I appeal that the public discourse of all subjects in society should be adjusted to that, without harsh words and calls for conflicts. It is important that some media are not guided by misinformation and propaganda texts. Simply, we must all be aware of our responsibility.
When it comes to public gatherings, members of the Police are again facing complex temptations. It is not natural to set things up in such a way that those who keep order and peace are called upon to disturb it. Not only will this not happen, but also because Montenegro has established institutions that act in accordance with the law. However, I note that there is no and will not be a selective application of the law. Montenegro is a country where the law is equal for all and where everyone is equal before the law.

The safety and security of citizens is not endangered. We are determined to uncompromisingly fulfill this legal obligation.

Finally, I have to look back, not only as the head of the body dealing with internal affairs, but as a man who respects every profession, to the increasingly frequent insulting and disregarding of the police. It is unfortunate that this is encouraged even by certain clergy and political entities. This insults not only their personal and professional honour, but also the family one, since these are people who take care of the existence of their loved ones with their work. It is an insult to the state as well, which is painstakingly creating conditions for institution building, and even for the generations of those who have spent their working lives in that service.
But the attitude of our police officers is dignified and responsible. Their human and professional approach is respectable. Equally, we will not allow the discrediting of the police profession, those people who defend the order, often risking their lives. And all those police officers who fail to act in accordance with police ethics, will be sanctioned through appropriate procedures.