Montenegro’s President Jakov Milatović said on Wednesday that recent political developments in Kotor and Šavnik, where outgoing municipal assemblies appointed new mayors amid ongoing electoral processes, pose a threat to the rule of law in the country.
Speaking on Montenegrin state television, Milatović described the situation as a sign of institutional weakness. “Whenever I have spoken publicly on this issue, I have insisted that the only solution is to complete the electoral process,” he said.
He warned that such actions send a negative message to voters, undermining their choices. “These practices are harmful to democracy in Montenegro,” Milatović stated, adding that authorities should assess whether the cases in Kotor and Šavnik warrant legal investigation.
Tensions with Prime Minister Spajić
Addressing his relationship with Prime Minister Milojko Spajić, Milatović dismissed media speculation of personal conflict. “We have neither argued nor reconciled. Any criticism I have made has been well-founded,” he said, noting that he had returned around ten of the 120 laws sent to him for signature, always providing clear reasoning.
Regarding the formation of local government in Podgorica, he said the political movement Pokret za Podgoricu made coalition decisions without consulting him. “I believe the new city administration has started well. Whether Mayor Saša Mujović can translate his energy into results remains to be seen,” he commented.
Milatović also ruled out forming a political party but did not exclude the possibility of political engagement if circumstances required.
Parliamentary Deadlock and EU Involvement
Milatović attributed the ongoing opposition-led parliamentary blockade to disputes over the Constitutional Court. “The core issue lies in the actions of the parliamentary Constitutional Committee concerning the dismissal of a Constitutional Court judge,” he said, emphasizing the need for a functional parliament and dialogue.
He expressed willingness to mediate between the opposition and ruling majority and suggested involving the Venice Commission in resolving the crisis.
Economic Concerns and Consumer Boycotts
Milatović supported ongoing consumer boycotts against high product prices, calling them a justified form of protest. “It is up to decision-makers to assess which aspects of final prices they can influence and take action,” he said.
He warned of Montenegro’s economic vulnerabilities, citing a low export-to-import ratio of just 14%. “This is a troubling situation, and I expect a more proactive approach from the government,” he added.
Relations with Croatia and War Reparations
Milatović announced plans to host Croatian President Zoran Milanović in late March, emphasizing the importance of strengthening bilateral relations. He also said he would work to facilitate a meeting between Milanović and Prime Minister Spajić and assist in removing three Montenegrin officials from Croatia’s persona non grata list.
Commenting on an initiative to compensate wartime detainees, Milatović described it as a humanitarian effort. “Every Montenegrin family has someone who endured the suffering of Goli Otok. As a truly democratic society, we must address past injustices,” he said.
Criticism of Đukanović and DPS
Milatović accused the opposition Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS) of lacking reform and remaining under the control of former President Milo Đukanović. He criticized authorities for failing to investigate the actions of former officials, including Đukanović.
“I welcome Momo Koprivica’s initiative to launch proceedings against Đukanović,” he said, urging institutions to take a more active role in such cases.
