The recent approval of Montenegro’s Spatial Plan, coupled with the scandal surrounding the detention of the “Kotor” ship in U.S. waters and the suggested law aimed at penalizing road blockades, highlights signs of institutional decline and attempts to curtail civic activism, claimed Dritan Abazović, leader of the Civic Movement (GO) URA.

“The manner in which the Spatial Plan was passed, with a slim majority of 41 or 42 votes, marks a notable legal and democratic regression. This document carries significant implications and deserved broader consensus for approval. Instead, we have yet another indication that this parliamentary majority does not adhere to procedural or legal standards,” he remarked in his podcast, “Friday with Dritan.”

Abazović criticized Parliament Speaker Andrija Mandić’s remark that “MPs can voice their opinions freely because they have the people’s mandate” as particularly concerning.

“While they have the right to express their opinions, it must be done in accordance with the Constitution and laws. This does not grant them the authority to disregard fundamental procedures. If they were to decree that a hundred thousand people should leave the country simply because they hold a majority, would that be justified? Absolutely not, as that would fundamentally breach the Constitution and the law. For a legal proposal to reach deputies, it must pass through multiple filters, one of which, the assessment from the Environmental Protection Agency, the Spatial Plan did not meet timely. The Parliament isn’t solely to blame here; the Government, in its current form, is a mess. I believe this was done on purpose,” he stated.

Abazović also raised concerns over possible environmental damage:

“What does Montenegro’s Spatial Plan signify? Primarily, it initiates an assault on regions we’ve all fought to preserve as the natural treasures of Montenegro. Furthermore, this plan deviates from promises made by a portion of the parliamentary majority, particularly regarding Komarnica. So much criticism was directed at the previous government for its firm stance against inundating Komarnica. Presently, we have a new majority that has publicly maintained that Komarnica should remain unaltered, yet their Spatial Plan suggests otherwise. Additionally, issues like Sinjajevina persist. We have long opposed military training grounds there. The previous administration also disapproved of this decision; much criticism arose regarding why we did not rescind it. However, the new government has since neglected Sinjajevina,” the GP URA leader pointed out.

He emphasized that Montenegro finds itself in a precarious position where its vital resource—space—is under threat from all angles.

“This serves as a significant warning to every well-meaning citizen, for aside from our natural beauty and space, we possess no other asset that draws visitors or supports the community in Montenegro. In this context, I resonate with a phrase I admire, derived from World War II—’Space must fall,'” he remarked.

Addressing the incident with the “Kotor,” detained in U.S. waters due to mechanical issues, Abazović explained that the financial penalty the Montenegrin public faces could reach around 350 thousand euros.

“The greater concern, however, is the suspicion of corruption in the ship’s repairs. I publicly inquire: has the Minister of Maritime Affairs been summoned to testify before the Special State Prosecutor regarding this matter?” he probed.

He reminded that URA has long advocated for investment in the maritime sector and the procurement of national ferries.

“We now face a complete setback, and they boast about the line to Italy. What are the results? How many passengers and vehicles have been transported? What are the financial statements of Barska and Crnogorska plovidba? This is a disgrace for a maritime nation. Montenegro has never been governed by such incompetent leaders,” he concluded.

On the new government’s plans to introduce legislation banning road blockades, Abazović remarked that this symbolizes “the peak of arrogance.”

“Recall the DF tent from 2015? A major road in Podgorica was blocked for days without anyone considering penal actions. Now, those very individuals or their successors wish to impose fines or prison sentences on citizens for civil disobedience,” he articulated.

The GP URA leader believes the government is working to stifle criticism, recalling a previous attempt at legislating a ban on discussing state debt.

“Will they next prohibit breathing? Or suggest public executions for critical thinkers in Independence Square? Citizens, remember why we fought in 2020—for freedom, democracy, civic engagement. Don’t alter laws to obscure your incompetencies; change yourselves instead,” he urged.

In conclusion, Abazović stated that the final word rests with the citizens:

“If the government lacks the knowledge to resolve issues, it should resign. No one’s home burned down overnight. Don’t tear Montenegro apart,” he urged.

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