Darko Šuković Addresses Media Controversy Amid SDT Investigation

Darko Šuković, editor of Antena M, discussed the recent investigation led by the Special State Prosecutor’s Office (SDT) during an appearance on the program “Klub A+” hosted by Meli Ramusović. The SDT has implicated certain media outlets and critics of the government as being influenced by businessman Aleksandar Mijajlović, who is alleged to head a criminal network associated with serious charges, including abuse of position and leaking confidential information.

Šuković stated that he has not been summoned to provide testimony by the SDT. He remarked, “Everything I could know about myself, I wouldn’t seek from the SDT but rather from a media platform.” He noted the inclusion of two journalists as witnesses, raising the possibility that he might also be called. To date, he has received no communication from the SDT.

When asked why some members of the public did not express surprise at these developments, Šuković observed that reactions appeared to range from indifference to approval regarding the SDT’s actions against the media. He explained, “I think part of the public is even pleased that a group of media has come under fire from the SDT.”

Šuković emphasized that his communications with police officials have been strictly professional. “I call the director to verify information. There is nothing that would compromise us publicly,” he stated, asserting the integrity of those discussions. He expressed concern that if excerpts from these conversations were published without context, it could lead to misunderstandings and unfounded connections between parties involved.

A focal point of his argument was the public’s right to access private correspondence. He asserted that the public should not be privy to his communications with Mijajlović, regardless of their provocative nature. “Even if Mijajlović and I were discussing the delivery of cocaine, the public has no right to know while the case is still in the processing phase. The public deserves to know once the indictment is confirmed and a hearing is scheduled,” he stated.

Šuković criticized media outlets that reported on his correspondence, suggesting they favor one side over the other. He remarked that the role of media should not be to take sides, emphasizing that even the least experienced journalists understand the importance of hearing both sides of a story. He accused the SDT of promoting certain media narratives, creating public perceptions before the legal process begins.

In discussing a construction company owner recently prosecuted for cigarette smuggling, he defended his professional relationship with Mijajlović. “This is someone I frequently communicate with, spanning topics from sports to politics,” he explained, noting their clear advertising contract. “That contract is crystal clear, worth more than just a table at Antena M, let alone the entire station.”

He acknowledged that it is common to discuss upcoming articles with various individuals, stressing that the final editorial decisions rest solely with him. “If we were to put these discussions on paper, I am confident that some in the public would find connections and claim influence,” he remarked.

One of the most serious accusations discussed was related to graffiti in Rožaje that threatened Bosniaks. Šuković insisted that anyone involved should face severe penalties if proven guilty. “It is a matter of intelligence and principle. I cannot understand how someone could conceive of such actions in Montenegro, which is already inundated with harmful messages and threats,” he stated.

He also addressed the hypocrisy of those feigning shock over recent incidents of violence against Bosniaks, stating, “We have witnessed how Bosniaks are welcomed with threats, and those who have been media sponsors of such actions should remain silent.”

The conversation also touched on the unsolved murder of Duško Jovanović. While acknowledging that the media generally handles this topic correctly, he noted that the reporting can sometimes be problematic, stating, “The silence that has burdened the public for over twenty years feels like a millstone, especially since the murder remains unresolved.”

Šuković reiterated the importance of media freedom in combating organized crime, aligning himself with international partners who advocate for these values. He criticized the current political climate, particularly the approach of U.S. Ambassador Judy Rising Reinke, asserting that her policies contradict American values. “My critique of the EU and the U.S. has long been sharp. I cannot overlook the evident servility towards America,” he said.

Regarding a misogynistic attack on the ambassador, Šuković clarified that his comments focused on her professional conduct. He stated, “From the beginning, I have spoken about the policies she fails to protect, and I do not want to lose faith in the U.S. and the EU.”

He concluded by denouncing the financing of media and political parties with money derived from crime. He stressed the need for caution and critical questioning, particularly about the growing influence of social media bots. “When you decide to engage in public affairs, you cannot enter the process if you cannot withstand criticism,” he warned, cautioning against the dangers posed by unregulated digital narratives.