Ahead of Montenegro’s Independence Day on May 21, President Jakov Milatović awarded honors to nine individuals who, according to a statement from the President’s Office, made lasting contributions to the country through their work and actions.
Among them was the late editor of the newspaper Dan, Duško Jovanović, who received a posthumous award in recognition of his courage to be a voice of free speech even during the most difficult times.
In addition to Jovanović, the honorees included Zoran Rašović, Tatjana Motrenko-Simić, Vanja Ćalović-Marković, Snežana Dragićević, Goran Radević, Dejan Savićević, Mirsad Serhatlić, and Božidar Ivanović.
According to Dan’s news portal, the award was accepted on behalf of the family by Jovanović’s wife, Slavica Jovanović.
“I thank you for the honor you have presented to me today. I thank you in my own name, and on behalf of our son Vojin, for keeping the memory of Duško alive. I also speak on behalf of all those who have never stopped believing in justice,” she said.
She emphasized that her husband’s murder remains unsolved and that justice has not been served.
“Truth has become a currency in political bargaining. That is complicity in a crime,” said Slavica Jovanović.
President Milatović stated that Duško Jovanović was one of the most important symbols of journalism and free speech in Montenegro—someone who paid the ultimate price in his fight for a better and fairer country.
“We must preserve the memory of his character and work with deep respect and continually highlight everything he accomplished as a man of integrity, a committed professional, and someone who contributed to Montenegro’s democratization and progress through truth,” said Milatović.
“Duško was a symbol of journalism and free expression in this country. Through his hope, dedication to the profession, and belief in a better future, he paved the way for generations of media workers to remain steadfast in the pursuit of truth, contributing daily to the advancement of Montenegrin society,” the President added.
He stressed that by awarding this posthumous recognition, the state pays tribute to Jovanović’s bravery in standing for free speech even in the darkest times.
“I also send a strong message: we will never forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the fight for truth and justice,” Milatović concluded.
Source: Dan