The Public Company for the Management of the Maritime Zone of Montenegro has issued a statement regarding the civil protest that took place in Tivat on Sunday about the leasing of part of Belana beach. They asserted that all procedures concerning the lease were duly followed and that the local administration of Tivat was informed in a timely manner about their intentions regarding this section of coastline in the smallest town on the Boka Kotorska Peninsula.

Morsko dobro expressed respect for citizens’ rights to voice their opinions.

“However, we find it essential to remind the public about the legal processes that were observed, to present the facts, and to pose a question that many seem to avoid: Would there have been a protest if Belan himself, one of the protest organizers, had leased the beach?” stated the Coastal Zone, emphasizing that this question is posed not to provoke, but rather out of honesty towards the public.

“If the issue at hand is who the tenant is, rather than the leasing method, we are entering a selective struggle rather than one that focuses on public interest. It is unjust to consider a procedure reliable when it satisfies certain local actors and invalid when it does not. The public interest should not be dependent on the outcome of any tender,” stressed Morsko Dobr.

The southern part of Belane beach, previously unleased, has been leased to the Podgorica construction firm “Civil Engineer” until the end of 2028.

The organization highlighted that it has legally and transparently executed the procedures for preparing the Temporary Facilities Program for 2024-2028 and the Atlas of Montenegrin Beaches.

“These documents were submitted for review to all coastal municipalities, including the Municipality of Tivat. Tivat had the opportunity to submit comments, which they did for certain locations such as Ponta Seljanovo, where their feedback was incorporated. However, no comments were made regarding Belane beach. Therefore, we believe it is irresponsible and politically motivated to shift the blame onto the Public Enterprise, as the process was open, well-known, and accessible in a timely manner. The beach’s lease was conducted through a public and transparent bidding process and does not constitute its alienation,” Morski Dor explained, reminding that the lessee is required to maintain half of the beach free of furniture for public use.

“This approach helps preserve the public nature of the coast while ensuring functionality, sustainability, and safety,” the Coastal Zone Authority affirmed, advising the Tivat municipal authorities that “we cannot ignore planning documentation during its developmental phase and then protest publicly when it comes to fruition.”

“If the issue lies solely in the identity of the tenant and not in the law and due process, then this is not a quest for the public good, but rather an attempt for private influence over public space,” emphasized the state-owned company, led by Mladen Mikijelj (Nova). They reassured that “The Public Company for the Management of the Coastal Zone of Montenegro remains committed to upholding the law, protecting the interests of the state and local communities, and is open to dialogue with all stakeholders.”

“However, this dialogue must not occur under the influence of political manipulation and selective interpretations of the law based on individual stakeholders. The public good should not hinge upon personal connections or preferences regarding the tenant’s name,” concluded the JPMD statement.

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