Ombudsman Urges Pljevlja Mayor to Remove Misogynistic Post

The Ombudsman of Montenegro has recommended that Darijo Vraneš, the mayor of Pljevlja, remove a controversial post from his Instagram account. The post, made in early December 2022, contained derogatory comments directed at Milka Tadić Mijović, the executive director of the Center for Investigative Journalism, following her critique of his nationalist statements.

In the post, Vraneš quoted the Montenegrin poet Njegoš and included a series of emojis, saying, “Kazuj, babo, jesi li vještica? Jesam kneže, nije fajde kriti.” This remark was interpreted as both misogynistic and ageist, prompting the Ombudsman to take action. The official document, which was reviewed by local media outlet Vijesti, emphasized the need for Vraneš to refrain from making comments or statements that promote discrimination against women or perpetuate stereotypes.

The Ombudsman’s office noted that Vraneš is required to submit a report within 30 days detailing the actions he has taken to comply with their recommendations. The criticism of Vraneš’s comments highlights ongoing concerns about the treatment of women in public discourse in Montenegro.

Context of the Controversy

The controversy erupted after Vraneš defended the legitimacy of the Podgorica Assembly, which annexed Montenegro to Serbia in 1918. Tadić Mijović responded to his remarks, stating that his actions were expected and indicative of a failure to embrace the values of a civic, democratic Montenegro. She characterized his celebration of historical conquests and nationalistic sentiments as contrary to the principles of a free society.

Tadić Mijović expressed her discontent with Vraneš’s rhetoric, stating, “He glorifies conquerors and chauvinists, those who occupied our country in 1918, and seems intent on advancing such views.” Her comments reflect broader societal tensions regarding nationalism and the role of women in public life.

In response to the mayor’s post, the Basic Prosecutor’s Office in Pljevlja filed a request for a misdemeanor proceeding against Vraneš based on his comments. The Ombudsman’s opinion, signed by Deputy Ombudsman Nerma Dobardžić, underscored that Vraneš’s remarks could not be viewed solely as part of political discourse but rather as expressions that reinforce gender and age stereotypes.

Implications for Public Discourse

The Ombudsman’s report emphasized the serious nature of Vraneš’s comments, stating that they do not constitute a neutral political message but instead perpetuate harmful stereotypes. The document pointed out that using language that describes women in derogatory terms contributes to an environment of discrimination.

The Ombudsman noted that the context of Vraneš’s comments—including their dissemination from an official account—amplified their impact, potentially discouraging women and older individuals from participating in public discourse.

Despite Vraneš’s claims that he did not intend to offend and that he respects all women, the Ombudsman’s office remarked that such intentions are irrelevant when assessing discrimination. The focus remains on the objective effects of his words and their implications for public dignity.

The situation surrounding Vraneš’s post has raised significant awareness about the need for respectful dialogue in political discourse, particularly regarding issues of gender equality and inclusivity in Montenegro. As the investigation into Vraneš’s comments unfolds, it will be crucial to observe how this case influences future discussions on gender and public expression in the region.