UPDATE: Dritan Abazović, leader of the Civic Movement URA, has condemned the Montenegrin government’s recent job offers to residents of Botun as illegal and discriminatory. This urgent response follows the government’s proposal aimed at ending protests related to the construction of a collector in the region.
In a statement made earlier today, Abazović criticized the government’s plans, stating, “They suggested that residents of Botun should have priority for employment at the facility. This is unprecedented and clearly discriminatory against other citizens.” He emphasized that the mayor’s attempt to label this as affirmative action demonstrates a misunderstanding of its meaning.
Abazović’s remarks come in light of a significant political backdrop, as the government seeks to advance a project worth tens of millions of euros that has faced delays for over a decade. He questioned the suitability of appointing politically connected individuals to key positions instead of experts with relevant experience.
“Are we to change all laws just to say that finishing the project is all that matters?”
Abazović also expressed deep concern regarding the ongoing legal issues surrounding Do Kwon, the South Korean crypto entrepreneur recently sentenced to 15 years in prison for his role in a major cryptocurrency collapse that resulted in losses exceeding $40 billion in 2022. He criticized Prime Minister Milojko Spajić’s lingering associations with Kwon, claiming that investigations into their connections remain unresolved.
“As Kwon faces a $19.3 million penalty, we are still waiting for our institutions to act on the evidence in their possession,” Abazović stated, highlighting the failures of the current administration to address allegations of misconduct.
The URA leader pointed out that Kwon had previously alleged financial backing from the crypto community for the ‘Europe Now’ movement in Montenegro, which he claims was intended to establish a crypto-friendly environment.
Abazović reiterated the need for accountability, stating that “the truth will eventually emerge,” as he announced potential criminal charges against the government if allegations of illegal surveillance involving former officials are substantiated.
As violence continues to plague Montenegro, with recent shootings linked to organized crime, Abazović called for a focus on justice rather than political persecution of dissenters. He underscored the importance of addressing the root causes of such violence, which he attributes to a government’s failure to uphold the rule of law.
In a move aimed at supporting vulnerable citizens, Abazović announced his party’s proposal for a new housing law, “Housing for All,” which aims to provide affordable housing options for single parents, low-income individuals, and young couples. He stressed that the government must act swiftly to alleviate the plight of over 40,000 renters in need.
“We have lost two valuable years in addressing this crisis. The government must not waste any more time,” he urged.
As the situation develops, the ongoing political discourse in Montenegro raises critical questions about governance, accountability, and the future of the country’s economic landscape. Observers are urged to remain vigilant as these events unfold.
