Jasmin Ćorović, the Vice-President of the Bošnjačka stranka and a member of the Montenegrin Parliament, expressed strong condemnation regarding the singing of nationalist songs during the Epiphany celebrations in Podgorica. This incident occurred while participants were swimming for the Holy Cross in the Moraca River. Ćorović criticized the glorification of figures such as Pavle Đurišić and Dragoljub Mihailović, labeling them as war criminals and representatives of a destructive ideology that has led to significant violence and destruction throughout history.
Ćorović emphasized the painful legacy of Đurišić and Mihailović, noting that their actions have had particularly detrimental effects on the Bosniak and Muslim communities during the Second World War and later during the disintegration of the SFRJ. He stated, “Every glorification of the character and deeds of these criminals is condemned in the strongest terms.” The implications of the Chetnik movement have also affected other ethnic groups, including many Serbs, as Ćorović pointed out.
The Vice-President lamented the presence of young and older individuals singing Chetnik songs during a religious celebration. He questioned the connection between the noble principles of Orthodox Christianity, which advocate for love and peace, and an ideology rooted in ethnic cleansing and violence. “How can the significant biblical message ‘love thy neighbour’ be reconciled with the actions of Pavle Đurišić?” he asked, highlighting the discord between the celebration of faith and the endorsement of hate.
Ćorović remarked that rather than a spiritual calling, the event had devolved into a platform for “fascistic songs and malevolent messages.” He expressed concern that this trend has become commonplace. “I ask those young men and religious figures who tolerate such songs: Can one truly celebrate without love, but rather through hatred? Is this how joy is experienced—only through animosity towards others?”
In his statement, Ćorović urged the public to reflect on the true essence of celebration, questioning whether this was a genuine expression of faith or a distorted representation of Orthodox Christianity. “To all sincere believers, I extend my wishes for the Orthodox holiday of Bogojavljanje, coupled with sorrow over such reactions. For those still unaware of what true Orthodoxy is, I hope that instead of Pavle and Draža, they may encounter God,” he concluded.
The reaction from Ćorović underscores ongoing tensions in Montenegro regarding national identity and the legacy of historical conflicts, reflecting a broader discourse on extremism and historical memory within the region.
