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Media NGOs condemn the verbal attacks of socialist MP Oleg Savva against journalist Mariana Colun from Anticoruptie.md portal of the Center for Investigative Journalism.
Thus, in response to a material published on 26 November this year on Anticoruptie.md portal about MP’s income, the dignitary called the reporter on a social network a ‘liar’, ‘scum’ and ‘illiterate girlish’. Savva also threatened to sue her.
Note that the intimidation of a journalist for criticism entails criminal liability. Also note that Article 9(4) of the Law on Freedom of Expression stipulates that the persons exercising public functions may be subject to criticism and their actions – check by the media ‘as to the way in which they exercised or exercise their duties, to the extent that this is necessary to ensure the transparency and the responsible exercise of their duties’.
In addition, the media law stipulates that a journalist is entitled to disseminate information of public interest.
Last but not least, we remind MP Savva that his indecent language is not compatible with his status.
We demand criminal prosecution bodies to act on their own initiative with respect to this case, and disclose the results of the investigation to the general public.
Given the forthcoming Parliamentary Elections, we urge the people involved in the election competition to show a decent behavior towards the media, and to notify the Press Council when they disagree with those written by the journalists.
Independent Journalism Center
Association of Independent Press
Association of Electronic Press
Center for Investigative Journalism
Press Freedom Committee
Association of Independent TV Journalists
‘Access-info’ Center
RISE Moldova
