EU: We are following the case of Igor Popović, every measure of deprivation of liberty must be justified

BRUSSELS – The European Union is closely monitoring the case of the Deputy Director of the Office for Kosovo and Metohija, Igor Popović, and takes note of the ruling of the Basic Court in Pristina, said a spokesperson in the EC, adding that Brussels expects the rule of law and fair proceedings to be fully respected. The EU responded to a question from Tanjug on how they comment on Popović’s arrest and whether they will take any action regarding it, stating that any measure of deprivation of liberty must be justified and proportionate.

“Only through dialogue can progress be made in normalizing relations between Belgrade and Pristina. Statements and actions that do not contribute to this goal should be avoided,” the EU response states.

Popović was arrested on Friday at the Brnjak administrative crossing, following a statement he made at a memorial service for the victims of the municipality of Orahovac held in Velika Hoča. The preliminary proceedings judge ordered him to be detained for up to 30 days on Sunday, as he allegedly incited discord and intolerance during his speech. The Director of the Office for Kosovo and Metohija, Petar Petković, stated that the decision to detain his deputy Igor Popović for 30 days is a clear indication of the full abuse of the Pristina judiciary for the political purposes of Albin Kurti and emphasized that there will be no continuation of dialogue on normalizing relations with Pristina until Popović is released. (July 23)