We demand a definitive legal framework for citizens to directly influence key decisions—bypassing political parties. We seek the implementation of obligatory local referendums for significant changes impacting the character, structure, or future of our communities, as articulated by the citizen group “Work for My City,” participating in the upcoming local elections in Nikšić.

In their statement, they urged the Government of Montenegro to begin revising the Law on Local Self-Government and Referendums. Such changes would empower citizens in Nikšić and other municipalities to initiate local referendums on critical developmental issues, with outcomes binding for local and state authorities.

Moreover, they advocate for establishing electronic and open citizen assemblies, which would be legally recognized within the decision-making framework, facilitating broader public involvement, especially among youth. They also emphasize the necessity to shield these assemblies from political manipulation, insisting that local communities must evolve beyond mere extensions of political parties, becoming genuine platforms for public engagement with their own budgets and transparent practices.

“In Montenegro, authority is still viewed as a privilege rather than a responsibility. Central authorities dictate the lives of Nikšić residents without their input. Political parties often recall citizens only during election time; once elections conclude, the public is sidelined entirely—regardless of unregulated developments, land sales instructions, vanishing forests, or unfulfilled local budget expectations,” the statement reads.

“Political parties from Podgorica frequently approach elections with vague and general pledges, promising a bright future if re-elected, yet fail to provide concrete solutions. Subsequently, they make decisions outside the mandate given by citizens, as evidenced by the current purported sale of Ulcinj to questionable investors,” the statement continues.

It asserts that the residents of Nikšić are best aware of their needs.

“Our agenda clearly articulates that every local community deserves a designated square, a decision-making hub, and assemblies, ensuring that every household feels their input is valued. These assemblies are not mere gatherings; they represent the core of a community, fostering a sense of belonging, accountability, and true power among the populace. Our aim is not to change leadership for the sake of ‘ruling’; rather, we desire shared power encompassing all citizens. We strive for politics to return to its rightful place—among the people,” the group concluded, asserting that the EU also advocates for augmented citizen involvement in local governance.

“We seek nothing more than what citizens rightfully deserve. We are not demanding power but responsibility. We request mechanisms for returning authority to the populace. It is enough to be recognized only during campaigns—we ask for the right to influence our future daily. The time for party silence and clandestine deals is over; it’s time for the people’s voice to resonate! We are not requesting promises from the Government—we are demanding the right to shape our destiny. Nikšić does not belong to parties; it belongs to its citizens,” the statement wraps up.

News