Bosnian Party Vice President Condemns Nationalist Songs in Podgorica

Vice President of the Bosniak Party and Member of Parliament, Jasmin Ćorović, has publicly condemned the singing of nationalist songs during the traditional swimming event for the Holy Cross in Podgorica, Montenegro. This event, held on January 19, 2024, has sparked controversy due to the resurgence of songs associated with historical figures linked to wartime atrocities.

Ćorović specifically called out the glorification of figures such as Pavle Đurišić and Dragoljub Mihailović, whom he described as criminals and collaborators with occupying forces. He emphasized that celebrating these individuals symbolizes an ideology that has led to devastating consequences, including murder and destruction. “Every glorification of these criminals is condemned in the strongest terms,” he stated.

The vice president highlighted that the harmful effects of the Chetnik movement were notably felt by the Bosniak and Muslim population during World War II, and later through the disintegration of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (SFRJ). He pointed out that the consequences of this ideology extended beyond one community, impacting various ethnic groups, including many Serbs.

Ćorović expressed concern about the presence of this “retrograde and backward ideology” still having followers today. “Montenegro is not immune to this sickness,” he remarked, expressing dismay at witnessing both young and older individuals singing Chetnik songs like “Izvidnica Pavla Đurišića” and “Sve su straže đenerala Draže” during a religious holiday.

He questioned how the noble principles of Orthodox Christianity, which promote universal ideas of love and peace, could align with an ideology rooted in ethnic cleansing and extermination. Ćorović asked, “How can the essential biblical message of ‘love thy neighbor’ be connected to the actions of Pavle Đurišić?” His remarks highlighted a fundamental disconnect between the celebration of a religious holiday and the glorification of war criminals.

“Instead of the celebration of God, fascist songs and evil messages emerged,” he lamented. This incident is not isolated; Ćorović noted that such practices have become commonplace. He challenged the youth and religious figures who tolerate such songs, questioning whether true celebration can exist without love, or whether joy can only be felt through animosity towards others.

In closing, Ćorović offered his best wishes to all sincere believers for the Orthodox holiday of Bogojavljanje while expressing sorrow over the events that transpired. He urged those still unaware of the true nature of Orthodoxy to seek a divine message rather than that of Pavle or Draža.