It is unacceptable that freedom of speech in the Republika Srpska (RS) entity is used to spread lies and untruths, and it is necessary to pass regulations according to which anyone who spreads lies, deals with the private life of other people and insults others be sanctioned, Milorad Dodik, the leader of the ruling Alliance of Independent Social Democrats (SNSD) party in this Serb-dominated entity and member of Bosnia’s tripartite Presidency said Sunday.

He noted that a general socio-political consensus is needed to define those rules.

“I also call on the opposition to agree on the adoption of regulations that will enable us to sanction untruths, lies and insults of others and determine draconian fines for something like that. But they shouldn’t worry, because if they (the opposition) don’t agree to that – we won’t do it either,” told Srna news agency.

He assessed that it would be good to pass such a law by consensus of all and a compromise that would enable the creation of an atmosphere of absolute freedom of speech, but without shameful labelling of people, telling untruths and interfering in other people's private lives.

Dodik believes that freedom of speech is absolute in the RS, but also completely irresponsible because the freedom of speech of an individual is limited by the freedom and rights of others.

“Everyone’s lying about everything here and many people think that the more they insult a person the more political points they would win. It’s quite clear and visible that this is not the case, at least not in the medium or long term, “said Dodik.

Referring to the claims of the opposition that there is a tendency towards “media darkness” in the RS, Dodik asked if that is the case, how is it possible for a journalist to come to a press conference, read his pamphlet or pre-prepared speech, and then leave conferences, not wanting to hear the answer or counter-arguments.”

He added that “the same journalist came to the opposition rally, and we all know who I’m talking about.”

Dodik emphasized that politicians bear responsibility for all words spoken publicly, which is manifested by politicians going to the polls and the public assessing whether their story was adequate, appropriate or speculative.

“Journalists should ask questions, even if they were embarrassing, and not argue with politicians about some things,” Dodik said.

He also mentioned that the rule in the work of journalists is to convey the information on how, where, when an event took place, who the actors are, what was said at those events, and not to comment on those events or present their views.

“If you want that, then be a commentator, deal with it that way, don’t poison the political scene in that regard,” said Dodik.

According to him, the very fact that the opposition held a gathering [on Saturday] and that they were never prevented from doing so, speaks in favour of the fact that no one prevented them from doing anything.

He warned that the ‘spin’ propagated by a local BN television affects people's mental health because for years it has been guided by a concept in which serious lies and untruths were told.

“With such a concept, this television contributed to the eviction of at least five percent of the total number of people who left the RS,” Dodik concluded.