The equitable allocation of revenue generated by the Electric Power Company of Montenegro (EPCG) from local resources, along with the return of CEDIS and CGES to Nikšić, constitutes the second demand articulated by the “Work for my city – Dr. Borislav Mišo Đurišić” movement to the Government of Montenegro.

The movement has committed to elucidating one request daily to the Government, urging it to articulate a clear stance on crucial matters affecting the survival and growth of Nikšić.

“For decades, Nikšić has served as the cornerstone of Montenegro’s energy sector development. Unfortunately, it has not benefited from a fair share of the revenues generated by the Electric Power Company of Montenegro (EPCG) from the utilization of local resources. The hydropower potential of Nikšić, particularly the Perućica hydroelectric power plant, has been vital for the national energy system for many years. Yet, today, Nikšić sees little to no advantage from this significant asset. The profits reaped by EPCG are deposited straight into the state treasury, with scant or zero returns to the city, which is most adversely affected by the environmental repercussions of resource exploitation,” the movement stated in its announcement.

They assert that this inequitable situation has culminated in the paradox that, despite being one of Montenegro’s wealthiest cities in terms of natural resources, Nikšić now relies on the Equalization Fund, grappling with inadequate funding for essential local government functionality and developmental projects.

Additionally, the “Work for my city” movement pointed out that the city’s financial limitations hinder its capacity to execute even basic ecological, infrastructural, or social initiatives aimed at significantly enhancing citizens’ quality of life.

“Our demand for a fair allocation of at least 20% of EPCG revenues is not merely a matter of financial justice but is foundational for the local community’s survival. This funding is critical for job creation, infrastructure development, revitalization of public areas, enhancement of educational and healthcare institutions, and the initiation of substantial environmental projects. We also call for the immediate release of funds owed to Nikšić due to concessions, exemplified by the situation at Bilećko Lake, where funds are awaiting administrative resolutions from state authorities while the citizens of Nikšić continue to suffer from a bureaucratic stagnation lasting decades,” the statement presented to the media declared.

They highlighted that a fair distribution of resource revenues aligns with the principles outlined in the European Charter of Local Self-Government, which Montenegro has ratified and is obligated to uphold.

The movement insisted that the Government urgently express its readiness to amend legislation so that a minimum of 20% of EPCG’s revenues generated in Nikšić are retained in the local budget.

“Alongside our demand for a fair distribution of EPCG revenues and concessions, we also request that the Government clarify its stance on returning the headquarters of CEDIS and CGES to Nikšić—the birthplace of these companies, from which they have been systematically removed over the years. CEDIS and CGES, now independent entities, originated from the Electric Power Company of Montenegro, which maintained its headquarters in Nikšić for many years. Not only did our city produce skilled professionals and foster the country’s energy development, but it also represented a symbol of Montenegro’s technical evolution. The relocation of these companies to Podgorica resulted in the loss of hundreds of jobs and critical positions for Nikšić, as well as a disregard for its historical significance. Returning their headquarters would not only rectify historical injustices but also deliver a strong message of respect for Nikšić’s legacy, knowledge, and contribution, affirming that balanced development is a tangible policy rather than a mere phrase,” the statement noted.

The “Work for my city” movement asserted that a decisive and affirmative response from the Government would convey to the citizens of Nikšić that the Government genuinely values the principles of decentralization and is prepared to act on its commitments. A failure to support this request would perpetuate the ongoing injustices faced by Nikšić and impart a clear signal to its citizens that the state views them solely as a source of resources, disregarding their future and quality of life, the movement concluded.

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