CRNVO and CGO: Political Meddling in RTCG Council Quite Evident
The Centre for Development of NGOs (CRNGO) and the Centre for Civil Education (CGO) reacted on the photograph published by “Vijesti” daily newspaper, presenting Branislav Calic, Chairperson of Radio and Television Montenegro Council (RTCG Council), at a debate of the DPS SDP coalition in Niksic, during the election campaign.
Even if Calic isn’t party official, which is doubtful, having in mind where he sat at the debate and the fact that he travelled all the way from Podgorica to participate, it remains unacceptable for a person in his office to show support any political party, as evident from his presence, frenetic applause. He didn’t discredit only himself, but also the institution he heads. Moreover, he caused long-term damage to the process of true transformation of RTCG into a public service. CRNVO and CGO called on all the other members of the council to publicly condemn the actions of the Council’s Chairpersons, which is their prerogative provided in the Statute and the Rulebook. This is also their moral duty if they do perform their office in the best interest of the citizens of Montenegro, regardless of their political views. Although the Law doesn’t provide for members of the RTCG Council to have confirmed their “proper” moral and political qualifications for the office, the fact is that such considerations are the more efficient argument for one’s entry into the Council than the existing legislation. Having in mind the ongoing process of confirmation of six new members of the Council and that Calic is one of the six nominees, it seems that he attempted to strengthen his case at the expense of the very principles that are the basis of the concept of public service broadcasters, say CRNVO and CGO. |
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