The Independent Journalism Center (IJC), together with the co-signatory non-governmental media organizations, condemns the offensive language and hostile attitude displayed by Ion Bulgac, an adviser to the mayor of Chișinău, towards journalist Viorica Tătaru.
On October 7, amid tensions caused by Termoelectrica’s works in Cathedral Square in Chișinău, the journalist asked the adviser to answer a question about the situation. Instead of answering Viorica Tătaru’s question about a matter of public interest, Ion Bulgac made a series of accusations and used insulting labels against the journalist, including expressions such as “shameless mercenary,” “below rock bottom, no journalist in the Republic of Moldova has ever sunk as low as you have,” “I feel disgusted every time I see you,” and “I feel disgusted seeing you go around provoking people at every event.”
We consider such conduct unacceptable from a representative of the local public administration, especially towards a journalist carrying out her professional duties. Criticism of and disagreement with journalists’ work do not justify offensive language, name-calling, or personal attacks.
We call on Ion Bulgac to behave civilly in his dealings with journalists and refrain from hostile rhetoric and personal attacks. We also demand that he publicly apologize to journalist Viorica Tătaru for the statements and language he used against her.
Independent Journalism Center
Organizations that have endorsed the statement:
- Media-Guard Association
- Acces-info Center
- Press Freedom Committee
- Center for Investigative Journalism
- Association of Environmental and Ecotourism Journalists of Moldova
- Association of Independent Press
- RISE Moldova
