The head of the For the Future of Nikšić (ZBNK) coalition, Marko Kovačević, announced after a recess during the Nikšić Municipal Assembly (MA) session that the future governing constituents agreed that the Mayor will be from his coalition, with the Mayor from the Europe Now Movement (PES) and the Vice Mayor from Democratic Montenegro.

Kovačević informed the press that the request for a break was to finalize additional aspects of the government formation in Nikšić and to draft a coalition agreement.

In response to inquiries from Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS) councilor Rajko Perović regarding the Municipality’s operations, he stated that the questions were not directed at him, asserting that the local administration adheres to legal standards.

During the Municipal Assembly session, Perović questioned who had been overseeing the Municipality of Nikšić since May 10, when Kovačević’s mayoral term concluded, and who was responsible for signing documents and making decisions.

Zoran Mrkić, leader of the PES coalition, remarked that while typically he would assume the position of the President of the Municipal Assembly, it is possible that party decisions may lead to changes.

When asked about his potential role as Vice President of the Municipality, Nemanja Vuković, leader of the Democrats-Plenum 083 list and former President of the Municipal Assembly, reiterated that his party prioritizes public service over positions.

Boris Muratović, leader of the DPS list, claimed that voters were misled, stating, “A vote for PES was a vote for Kovačević, and it turned out that the governance at the state level is lacking, which will likely extend to local governance, reflecting poorly on the previous local administration.”

He emphasized that the former governing constituents, now reinforced by PES, failed to reach a consensus a month post-election, instead opting to delay the session, indicating their self-interests outweigh the citizens’ needs.

He assured that there will always be a constructive opposition to the authorities, but his stance is not against the city or its citizens.

Ivan Radojičić, leader of the European Alliance list, remarked that the debate over positions is once again bogging down the process, repeating old patterns, and reaffirming his commitment to represent citizens’ interests.

Kovačević assured that discussions among coalition partners are ongoing.

“I believe we will work efficiently, and that discussions will conclude swiftly. We aim to first elect the President of the Assembly, followed by the other necessary positions within the stipulated legal timeframe,” Kovačević stated.

Mrkić responded to press inquiries by stating that the Nikšić PES is “definitely united.”

Muratović expressed skepticism about the forthcoming administration.

“Their governance has demonstrated a lack of knowledge and irresponsiveness towards Montenegro’s resources, which won’t change in Nikšić. The previous four years were marked by ineffective governance, and the new administration appears poised to repeat these mistakes. Discussions seem to center on dividing power rather than fostering the city’s development.” he stated.

He emphasized that in the coming two years, alterations to electoral laws are anticipated.

“We can maintain our position as a responsible and constructive opposition without being adversarial to the city. However, we will oppose any faction that exploits the resources of our community and disrespects Montenegro’s state symbols,” Muratović concluded.

Radojičić reiterated that the factions vying for control of the city could not come to a consensus only a month after the election results.

“We will see how they manage to distribute positions. My focus remains on serving the interests of Nikšić and the constituents of the European Union, as well as my active role in the legislature,” Radojičić affirmed.

News