During the 30 years of Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS) governance, Nikšić has faced factory closures, emigration, and degradation, stated Dritan Abazović, president of the Civic Movement URA.

“When the DF (Democratic Front) took power in Nikšić in 2021, I challenge them to share what they achieved with the 44th Government. All their claims and the Democrats’ accolades are due to the 43rd Government’s initiatives. In a year and a half, the 44th Government hasn’t launched a single project,” Abazović remarked.

The GP URA announced that he made this statement at the final rally of the “URA – Drugačije – Dušan Golović!” list held last night ahead of the local elections in Nikšić set for Sunday, April 13th.

The statement emphasized that the gathering conveyed a message for change starting April 13, for the city under Trebjes, future generations, and those who fought for Nikšić with their lives.

Abazović highlighted that their mayoral candidate, Dušan Golović, embodies culture, upbringing, optimism, and respect for family, promising that Nikšić deserves Golović’s legacy to restore its former glory and work for the citizens’ benefit from April 13 onward.

“I take pride in our community and our struggles. One poignant moment in my political career occurred when I met with Steel Plant workers protesting on the roof after midnight. I realized then that sending Nikšić politicians to Podgorica was in vain, yielding nothing good in return. We must take charge for a better future for Nikšić and Montenegro. I am proud we returned a million square meters of city center land back to Montenegro, allowing 229 families to prosper from the Steel Plant. We also brought the ‘Beluga’ vodka factory, the second-largest exporter after Elektroprivreda, and contributed financially to the Fire Department and the Sutjeska football club stadium,” Abazović emphasized.

He asserted that URA has accomplished far more in a short time than anyone else has in many years.

Abazović extended a hand to all who aim to work honestly for Nikšić’s welfare.

“Nikšić must reconnect with its roots, which do not include primitivism, nationalism, or amateurism. Our city is known for its intellectual contributions, artists, and urban society—people who drive Montenegro’s economy. URA in Nikšić is obligated to revive that spirit. April 13 should mark the end of populism, nationalism, and crime for those opposing Nikšić and Montenegro, and the beginning of a new, progressive chapter,” he asserted.

Dušan Golović, leading the “URA – Drugačije” list, remarked that “these elections present an opportunity for Nikšić to reclaim its essence, bringing people back to the streets, children to schools, and youth to parks, ensuring they don’t feel hopeless but believe in a brighter future—one that embodies the spirit of Nikšić and the Civic Movement URA.”

“Historically, those who create change have been different, bolder, and true to their vision. We’re here to reimagine our city’s future, contrasting its recent past and current state. We must revive the spirit of old Nikšić—the champion of freedom and anti-fascism, the city of heroes who defy death,” Golović proclaimed, paying homage to Joka Baletić and Ljubo Čupić, who sacrificed their lives for a better Nikšić.

Councilor candidate Goran Šućur commented on political rivals claiming that voting for URA equates to voting for DPS or DF.

“Let me clarify: a vote for URA has never been a vote for DPS and will not become a vote for DF. A vote for URA symbolizes support for Montenegro, for Nikšić, and for its people. It stands for unity, stability, and progress in both Nikšić and Montenegro,” Šućur asserted.

Anđela Mijanović, a councilor candidate, expressed understanding for the disillusionment felt by many in Nikšić concerning politics bringing change.

“I get it, but we must persist in our fight because there’s always the potential for betterment. Those on this list know what it’s like to struggle, seeking jobs and housing, entering politics not for power but for a vision of a better city and state. It’s time for capable people to step forward and end the cycle of choosing the lesser evil,” Mijanović stated.

Darko Nikolić, another candidate for councilor, highlighted the privilege of being part of the Civic Movement URA, which comprises individuals with integrity and positive energy.

“Our virtue is that our integrity can’t be undermined; they find no scandal or dirt against us. This is why we are seen as a nuisance to those who oppose civilizational values and prioritize personal gain over Nikšić and Montenegro’s interests,” Nikolić contended.

Professor Rajka Glušica of the University of Montenegro, also a candidate for councilor, noted that URA chose to run independently in this election cycle.

“Our electoral list has been assigned the number 5 on the ballot. I believe this is no coincidence, as it represents URA well. Pythagoreans view 5 as the number of balance and harmony. In symbolism across cultures, it signifies humanity and transformation. URA aims to change and improve Montenegrin politics and society,” Glušica explained.

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