The management of Radio Television of Kosovo (RTK) has issued a statement clarifying that the removal of several editors from moderating television shows was the result of staff reorganization, not censorship.
The decision sparked strong reactions from the six affected moderators, the Association of Journalists of Kosovo (AGK), the RTK Workers’ Union, and the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), who described it as an “attack on free speech and an act of censorship.”
RTK’s Official Response
“RTK is undergoing a phase of programmatic and organizational advancement, with the goal of improving content quality across all channels and platforms, with a special focus on strengthening the RTK3 news channel. Within this framework, staff reorganization measures were taken. These are managerial decisions and are not punitive or disciplinary in nature,” the statement said.
According to RTK, the employment contracts of the editors remain intact.
“Their tasks relate to editing and editorial supervision, not moderating, therefore their release from moderation duties fully aligns with their contracts and internal regulations.”
RTK also rejected claims of censorship or silencing professional voices.
“Editors continue to enjoy full editorial freedom, demonstrated through their public appearances on RTK programs, more than ever before,” the statement added.
Reaction to Criticism
RTK further stressed that, despite operating under “unusual circumstances,” this situation will not hinder the institution’s efforts to advance programming and improve workflows.
The statement warned employees against making politically motivated or offensive comments on social media that conflict with professional ethics and standards.
“Any unfounded statements spreading misinformation and damaging the integrity of RTK will not be tolerated and will be handled in accordance with the law and internal regulations,” the broadcaster noted.
Finally, RTK reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, independence, objectivity, and editorial freedom, stating that every concern raised by editors or the public will be addressed with seriousness and in line with professional standards.
The Removed Moderators
On August 25, 2025, RTK management informed journalists and moderators Blerta Foniqi Kabashi, Meneta Zekaj Nushi, Jehona Zhitia, Edona Musa, Arton Mulliqi, and Valon Bajrami that, starting from September 1, 2025, they would no longer be part of program moderation.
The move sparked widespread reactions not only from the affected moderators but also from the AGK and the International Federation of Journalists, who criticized the decision as damaging to press freedom.
