The Kotor Democrats have voiced their opposition to the Ministry of Maritime Affairs’ plans to remove the board of directors of Crnogorska plovidba, led by Jovo Lazarević.

“We strongly support the chairman and the entire board of directors. Their dismissal, at this juncture, would be a politically and professionally detrimental action, with unforeseeable consequences for both Crnogorska plovidba and the wider maritime sector in Montenegro. We categorically reject all public insinuations regarding the improper conduct of the current management, as well as any claims of deliberate harm to the company. We expect a thorough investigation into these allegations and the motives behind the proposal to integrate Crnogorska plovidba with Barska plovidba,” stated the Kotor Board of Democrats.

They also highlight the public’s right to discern whether the motivations are based on professional grounds or hidden agendas that do not serve the public interest.

“We firmly oppose the merger of Crnogorska plovidba AD with Barska plovidba, as such a decision would undermine efforts to sustain the maritime industry in Kotor and erode the viability of one of the two remaining national maritime companies. The Municipal Committee of the Democrats is dedicated to improving, modernizing, and stabilizing Crnogorska plovidba’s situation. Given Kotor’s rich maritime heritage, the city must play an active and equal role in shaping the future of Montenegro’s maritime industry.”

The Kotor Democrats urged the Ministry of Maritime Affairs “to exercise institutional responsibility, avoid rash decisions, and seek a sustainable and long-term solution through open dialogue with the local community and professionals.”

“Caution and deliberation are essential to prevent errors that could have significant political and social ramifications. Should the Ministry disregard our position and proceed with replacing the board of directors, the Municipal Board of the Democrats of Kotor will abstain from participating in any decision-making or activities stemming from such actions. Our political and moral duty to the citizens of Kotor, as well as our commitment to preserving and fostering the maritime legacy, compels us to resist such attempts,” the statement concluded.

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