The SafeJournalists Network expresses deep concern over the recent statements made by Police Director General Muhamet Rrumbullaku regarding media coverage of the tragic death of a citizen in Pogradec city, followed by concerns raised by the family about delays in the ambulance’s arrival and the police’s response, leading to accusations of an incomplete investigation. Journalists reported on these concerns, pressuring authorities to react. On August 14, 2024, Rrumbullaku accused journalists of spreading “fabrications and vile accusations” against the State Police, labeling their reports as “deliberate disinformation.” He announced that the State Police would take legal action against individual journalists and social media users.
The SafeJournalists Network views the threat of criminal charges against journalists and social media users for allegedly spreading disinformation as an overreach of police authority, blurring the necessary separation between law enforcement and judicial functions. Criminalizing journalistic reporting contradicts the principles and constitutional guarantees of free speech and media freedom. This attempt can stifle independent journalism and undermine the role of the media as a watchdog of government and public institutions.
Rrumbullaku’s remarks included a troubling assertion that only the police’s official version of the event should be considered reliable, thereby challenging journalists’ essential duty to verify information through diverse sources. This position, endorsed by Prime Minister Edi Rama, threatens to undermine the critical role of the media in holding institutions accountable and providing the public with a comprehensive understanding of events. In a media landscape such as Albania, where public officials’ practice of distributing pre-prepared materials (audio, video, and text) to the media is prevalent, and journalists have limited access to firsthand sources, the assertion that only official narratives are reliable is particularly concerning.
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 threats and stop intimidating journalists and social media users reporting on issues of public interest. We emphasize respecting journalists’ essential role in verifying information from diverse sources and independently informing the public. Additionally, we urge adherence to judicial processes to address alleged disinformation in line with the Council of Europe and EU standards.
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 operate independently without fear of legal reprisal.
The SafeJournalists Network will continue to monitor this situation closely and advocate for protecting journalists’ rights and media freedom in Albania and beyond.
Pristina – Skopje – Sarajevo – Zagreb – Belgrade – Podgorica, 15th August 2024
Association of Journalists of Kosovo
Association of Journalists of Macedonia
BH Journalists Association
Croatian Journalists’ Association
Independent Journalists Association of Serbia
Trade Union of Media of Montenegro