N1 reacted to basketball coach Dusko Vujosevic’s claims that it was under the influence of opposition leader Dragan Djilas, saying that they are not true.
“N1 has been proving itself as an independent media outlet, focused on responsible and professional reporting, for almost 9 years. Our journalists have the freedom to investigate and report on all issue of public interest without fear of censorship or pressure. We are known to be the target of various players who spread lies in an attempt to ruin our reputation,” a statement said.
“One of those campaigns is still active – the spreading of false claims that Party of Freedom and Justice (SSP) leader Dragan Djilas is a co-owner and influences N1’s reporting. Both claims are false and groundless but the statement by basketball coach Dusko Vujosevic has become the main topic in tabloids and media outlets close to the ruling party, almost as if dictated.
“It’s clear that this is nothing but conscious manipulation and the spreading of lies.
“N1 is a news platform owned by United Media and is part of United Group which is majority owned by the BC Partners investment fund and that is clearly and unequivocally provable through available public reports and financial data. Dragan Djilas never was nor does he now own a share of our company and there is absolutely no influence on our editorial policy.
“Politicians can have an opinion about our reporting but the key thing is that they do not have the power to influence the content of our news. And that is true not only of Dragan Djilas but also of every player on the political scene.
“It really is time to end the rumors intended to muddy the waters once and for all. Let’s turn to the facts and not let false theories and gossip demean the integrity of journalism.
“N1 remains committed to combating false news and will continue to provide the public with credible information and maintain the trust of its audience despite this and similar attempts to slander us and ruin our reputation,” N1 said in its statement.
