UPDATE: President Jakov Milatović has just announced a new initiative aimed at transforming political engagement in Montenegro. During a crucial meeting in Danilovgrad on the evening of October 23, 2023, he emphasized the need for politicians to engage directly with citizens rather than remain isolated in their offices.
In a powerful statement, Milatović declared, “Montenegro does not need politicians locked in cabinets; we need conversations with citizens in every municipality and village.” His remarks highlight a growing demand for reform in how government officials interact with the public, especially as citizens voice concerns about political representation.
The president underscored the urgency of reforming the political system, insisting that the current model does not meet citizens’ expectations. “Today, citizens of Montenegro do not have full freedom of choice. We do not directly elect mayors, and closed party lists distance politicians from the people,” he stated. Milatović proposed an overhaul of the electoral system to introduce open lists, allowing voters to choose individual candidates rather than just party affiliations.
Citizens will soon have the opportunity to express their opinions on this critical reform through a referendum, a move that underscores the administration’s commitment to democratic engagement.
Milatović also addressed Montenegro’s pressing economic challenges, stating, “We have drifted too far from economic issues.” He highlighted the nation’s troubling economic situation, characterized by insufficient growth and high inflation. “Instead of experiencing growth rates of four or five percent, we face a combination of low growth and high prices,” he added.
As part of his vision for a sustainable economic model, Milatović called for a renewed focus on agriculture and structural investment. He emphasized that to retain rural populations, there must be increased funding for agriculture and genuine support for producers. “We must subsidize those who work and create new value, not just party employment in government,” he insisted.
In a further commitment to reform, he stressed the importance of improving the management of state-owned enterprises. “State enterprises must be engines of our development, not tools for servicing party interests,” he stated, advocating for better governance to become an integral part of Montenegro’s constitutional framework.
On the topic of European integration, Milatović urged for the acceleration of reforms to ensure Montenegro can swiftly reap the benefits of EU membership, particularly in areas like economic stability and job creation.
As the meeting concluded, the president reiterated the importance of direct dialogue with citizens across all municipalities. He believes such engagements will help define priorities and restore political accountability to the people.
The developments in Danilovgrad are being closely monitored as Montenegrins await the outcomes of proposed reforms and the upcoming referendum.
