Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has once again levelled serious accusations and threats against the N1 television network, portraying it as an enemy of the state rather than an independent media outlet performing its journalistic duties.
The latest confrontation was sparked by N1’s live coverage of a brutal police operation in Novi Sad, during which a frightened and distressed citizen made a statement that could be interpreted as a call for violence. It is clear that this statement did not represent N1’s stance but was an authentic, live eyewitness account that the network could not control.
Despite this, President Vucic seized the moment to issue a warning: “I am waiting for the reaction of the prosecution; if there isn’t one, we will have to take appropriate measures,” he stated. Such remarks demonstrate a direct attempt by the President to pressure the judiciary, effectively usurping the role of prosecutor and judge. This is not the first time Vucic has labelled N1 as an “occupational” or “terrorist” media outlet, creating an environment where journalists are targeted and freedom of speech is framed as opposition to the government.
It is now evident that a campaign of intimidation is ongoing, aimed at suppressing independent journalism. After failing to gain control over N1 and Nova TV through political arrangements with Nikos Statopulos of BC Partners, the majority owner of United Group, the President appears to be applying pressure on the prosecution and using unconstitutional methods to hinder or even prevent the network’s operations.
N1 warns that such actions undermine fundamental rights of Serbian citizens, including access to accurate information and the freedom to be informed. When the head of state positions himself above the Constitution and the law, it signals a dangerous drift away from democracy and toward personal rule.
Despite these threats and pressures, N1 will continue to operate professionally and responsibly, staying true to its mission of delivering facts and truth to the Serbian public. This was evident in Friday night’s live coverage from Novi Sad, where one of the most aggressive police operations in recent decades took place. Citizens across Serbia and the wider region were able to watch the events unfold live on N1, allowing them to form their own judgment about who initiated the violence and caused chaos.
N1 remains committed to independent journalism, ensuring that government attempts to obscure facts do not go unchallenged.
Source: N1
