Dragoslav Šćekić, the vice president of the Socialist People’s Party (SNP), stated that the party is not in a deserved position at the census level and requires urgent reforms. He anticipates being elected as the SNP’s leader in the forthcoming Congress.

Šćekić, who also serves as the Minister of Sports and Youth, mentioned that the date for the SNP Congress has yet to be set, with the procedural details still pending from party president Vladimir Joković.

He expressed hope that the Congress would occur soon, noting that the procedures should have started much earlier.

“The SNP urgently requires reforms; we need to initiate a new chapter. I am confident in our potential, especially in our people, whose talents and knowledge have not yet been fully utilized for the benefit of Montenegro,” Šćekić remarked during an interview with the MINA agency.

He emphasized that the SNP could significantly enhance Montenegro’s future and questioned why their contributions would be limited in an environment unworthy of the party.

“As a political party often referenced in political science education, which historically served as a genuine alternative to the Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS), the SNP has made substantial sacrifices to liberate Montenegro from numerous adversities caused by the DPS. We do not deserve our current census-level standing,” said Šćekić.

He believes the SNP is endowed with quality and stable individuals, and their combination of youth and experience could elevate the party to greater support from the citizenry.

Šćekić asserted his conviction in this potential, stating that his candidacy for SNP president would not exist if he harbored doubts.

“I believe in our ability to revitalize the SNP. My team and I are ready to lead crucial changes within the SNP to restore it to its former glory and uphold its core principles,” he declared.

When inquired about his expectations for being elected party leader and whether he has support within the party, Šćekić revealed that he wouldn’t have pursued the candidacy without anticipation of support.

“I have complete faith in our potential for victory and in our capacity to collaboratively effect positive change for the SNP, and consequently for Montenegro,” he affirmed.

Regarding anticipated opponents in the SNP presidential election, he expressed a desire to refrain from speculating, emphasizing that all individuals have the right to run.

“I intend to conduct this congressional campaign with honesty, kindness, and integrity, adhering to the principles that unite us within the SNP, while respecting our members,” Šćekić stated.

He also acknowledged that, even if Joković is no longer president, he would continue to support the SNP’s future leadership.

Šćekić noted that not everything Joković encountered within the SNP was ideal, as he inherited numerous challenges and a difficult environment, making his task challenging.

“Amid these challenges, Joković was unable to maintain the continuity of the struggle until the end, leading us to the point where the SNP was nearly on the brink of the census,” Šćekić said.

He expressed his unwavering support for Joković, alongside many other SNP colleagues, to achieve better outcomes.

Šćekić mentioned that he expects Joković to remain an engaged part of the SNP as the Minister of Agriculture.

He indicated that the time has come for substantial reforms, new party organization, and potentially new political actions.

Šćekić elaborated that he refers to collaborating with various political entities forming the current government.

“I believe those who communicate effectively within the current government ought to contribute to a movement focused on the public’s welfare, enhancing Montenegro, restoring the rule of law, and sincerely promoting a pathway toward the European Union (EU), supported by international bodies,” Šćekić detailed.

He emphasized including not just ruling parties committed to a socially responsible state but also independent intellectuals, politically inactive citizens, and NGOs addressing social issues and citizen rights.

According to him, the SNP has exemplified the ideal functioning and organization of a political party and shouldn’t have lost this standard.

“We must reconnect with our members and supporters and honor their sacrifices,” Šćekić concluded.

“Krivokapić’s Appointment Reflects Disregard for Citizens’ Needs”

When asked about the intensity of the disagreements between a segment of the parliamentary majority and the Bosniak Party regarding the appointment of Ranko Krivokapić as an advisor to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MVP), Šćekić acknowledged the significant tensions stemming from the dissatisfaction of certain political factions, yet noted that the government’s functionality remains intact.

“There have been remarks indicating instability, but since the government continues to fulfill its duties, it’s evident that it is operational and free from critical issues,” Šćekić stated.

He pointed out that the citizens would best perceive the government’s stability amid existing tensions.

In discussing the disagreements between part of the parliamentary majority and the Bosniak Party, Šćekić emphasized the need to recognize Montenegro’s heterogeneous governmental landscape.

“Despite our diverse political affiliations, we must nurture the essence of the message born on August 30, 2020, as that season of change compelled us, and citizens anticipated a comprehensive transformation,” Šćekić remarked.

He reiterated that urgent reforms are necessary due to the detrimental legacy left by the DPS and its alliances, as citizens clearly demanded change, a new majority, stability, and advancement.

Šćekić asserted that current power-holders must be discerning regarding which personnel they appoint to various roles.

He criticized the appointment of Krivokapić as an advisory role at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as lacking awareness of the citizens’ aspirations for meaningful national transformation.

“Krivokapić symbolizes an epoch of division, fostering animosity, and the Bosniak Party should have been wary of reinstating individuals associated with discord and turmoil in Montenegro through the new government,” Šćekić articulated.

When asked about the government’s stability for the remaining term with its current constituents, Šćekić acknowledged that some members may reconsider their participation, but he remains confident the government will complete its mandate and yield substantial results, positioning it favorably for future elections.

He highlighted that a period of time will be required to address issues that have persisted for over two decades.

“The State Subordinated to Clans”

Referring to the Parliament session set for May 29, where discussions will revolve around the initiative to dismiss Parliament Speaker Andrija Mandić, Šćekić expressed his belief that the parliamentary majority will not endorse the DPS proposal to dismiss Mandić, as they lack sufficient justification.

“If we delve into their claims, concrete arguments have not been presented to the public from competent authorities such as the Police Directorate or the Prosecutor’s Office to clarify the bases for these accusations,” Šćekić noted.

He added that the DPS is the last political faction qualified to lecture on moral integrity in politics and governing Montenegro, being responsible for bringing the nation to its lowest state, particularly regarding rule of law.

Šćekić referenced the incriminating communications unveiled in the Sky correspondences, indicating how the state’s functionality has significantly deteriorated due to its entanglement with criminal clans.

He remarked that this criminal backdrop has instigated numerous tragedies, placing Montenegro on the map of illicit activities such as drug trafficking and smuggling.

“These issues are unacceptable and require immediate cessation; we are witnessing a continuous escalation in the fight against crime,” Šćekić declared, expressing concern that judicial systems have not kept pace with this battle.

He underscored that one cannot discuss a sovereign Montenegro and its constitutional order without acknowledging the substantial erosion initiated by the DPS.

Šćekić maintained that the future governance should reflect that the DPS holds a status below ten percent, indicating that they should not entertain any strength or initiative capable of altering the political landscape in Montenegro.

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