Pupovac’s VIDA seeks respect for Tito’s Galeb: Read the comments from ‘hahača’
The VIDA media channel, led by Milorad Pupovac, faces backlash after calling Tito's Galeb a 'ship of peace' while highlighting its restoration costs and recent maritime incident.
The VIDA channel, an audiovisual media outlet financed by the Croatian state and led by Milorad Pupovac, has been in the spotlight for its portrayal of Tito's ship, Galeb, as a 'ship of peace'. This portrayal has drawn a mixed reaction online, where while some ridicule the statement, others express anger, exacerbating divisions surrounding the legacy of Tito and his policies. The article showcases the comments from Facebook users, highlighting the significant polarized opinions among the public regarding the memory of Tito and the values he symbolized.
The Galeb, which has undergone an expensive restoration process costing taxpayers over 20 million euros, was recently damaged in a maritime accident in the Rijeka port. The incident involved a Turkish cargo ship, Deniz Akay, which collided with the Galeb after losing propulsion. Fortunately, there were no injuries or environmental damage reported, but the event did raise questions about the management and financial implications of maintaining such a heritage vessel.
The implications of such reporting underscore the ongoing debate in Croatia about its historical narratives and how they are presented in the media. The mixed reactions to VIDA's comments reflect the deep-seated feelings about the legacy of Yugoslavia, and the current socio-political climate, which remains contentious around issues of national identity and historical interpretation.