UPDATE: The Agencija za sprečavanje korupcije (ASK) has just announced a new competition for the position of director, set to conclude by mid-January 2026. This marks a pivotal moment for the agency, which has faced significant scrutiny and controversy over the past decade.
URGENT: Currently led by Dušan Drakić, who has served as acting director since August 23, 2024, the agency is under pressure to establish stable leadership. The competition is open for 20 days, requiring candidates to meet strict qualifications, including a minimum of ten years of relevant experience.
The ASK’s recent decision to revise previous rulings regarding former president Mila Đukanović has highlighted the ongoing challenges within the agency. Following a court ruling in May, the council is compelled to reassess the dismissal of former director Jelena Perović, which has added further complexity to the selection process.
Candidates for the new director must possess a minimum four-year university degree, ten years of work experience, and submit at least three recommendations from prior employers. Additionally, the selection process will include rigorous psychological evaluations to ensure candidates can handle the demands of the role.
BACKGROUND: The ASK has a troubled history, with leadership positions often marred by allegations of impropriety. The first director, Sreten Radonjić, served from October 1, 2015, until the end of 2019, followed by Perović, who was dismissed amid legal controversies in August 2022. Drakić’s appointment as acting director was intended as a temporary measure but has lasted longer than initially planned.
WHAT’S NEXT: The council, chaired by Pavle Ćupić, will evaluate applicants and aims to finalize the selection process as soon as possible, adhering to European Union recommendations for stable governance. This urgency underscores the need for a permanent director to ensure the agency’s effective operation moving forward.
The implications of this appointment are significant, particularly as the ASK plays a crucial role in combating corruption and maintaining public trust. As the agency moves toward finalizing its leadership, it is paramount that the new director is equipped to navigate the complex challenges ahead.
Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops, and the next director of the ASK is officially named.
