Vienna, 08/02/2011
The South and East Europe Media Organisation (SEEMO), a network of editors, media executives and leading journalists from South East Europe and an affiliate of the International Press Institute (IPI), strongly condemns threats allegedly made by a film actor in Kosovo on 2 February 2011 towards Alfred Beka, of the daily Express, and Vullnet Krasniqi, of the daily Koha Ditore.
After writing articles that were critical of the actor, who is also a movie director, the two journalists allegedly received threatening phone calls from him.
According to information received by SEEMO, the actor allegedly called Krasniqi on 2 February 2011 and said: “Who do you think you are, writing such an article about my movie? Do you think I am some kind of amateur? I assure you, when we happen to meet some day, I will kill you.”
Beka also allegedly received a threatening phone call.
“Such intimidation is intolerable,” said SEEMO Secretary General Oliver Vujovic. “Every reporter has the inalienable right to report on events in the public interest, and to present critical views.”
Film directors and actors are individuals who hold an important public role. Public figures in particular must be open to critical remarks from journalists. SEEMO demands a clear investigation of this case.