During a guest appearance on Montenegro Television, Prime Minister Milojko Spajić expressed views that starkly contradict his earlier statements to councilors and local officials in Ulcinj, according to Genci Nimanbegu, the municipality’s leader.

Nimanbegu asserted that the Prime Minister’s claim about no discussions on specific projects in Velika Plaza is false.

“In fact, the councilors of the Ulcinj Municipal Assembly were informed that there is significant interest in investments in the Velika Plaza area, which is a vital local asset. Furthermore, although the Prime Minister initially stated he had no knowledge of the projects that investors from the United Arab Emirates were interested in, he later admitted, when directly asked by a journalist, that he had been in touch with Mr. Alabaro, who is interested in a ‘large project on the coast,'” Nimanbegu noted in his response.

“This inconsistency raises questions about the transparency and coherence of government communication,” he added.

Nimanbegu continued, “The Prime Minister’s attempt to undermine my integrity by portraying me as someone who ‘tells different versions of the story’ is an unjust and unprofessional behavior unbecoming of a Prime Minister of a sovereign nation. Throughout our six meetings in ten days, MPs, mayors, and other political representatives were present. From day one, I have consistently emphasized that every investment plan in Ulcinj must adhere to the valid planning documentation, the principles of sustainable development, and the interests of the local community. Any contrary statements are grossly misleading.”

He stated that he made it clear during the first meeting that it is not acceptable for one company—even if it is state-owned—to monopolize management of the entire area of Velika Plaza, noting its significant and multifaceted value that requires careful consideration through institutional dialogue.

Nimanbegu expressed concern about the government’s fluctuating rhetoric and positions. “Initially, you claimed not to know who Mohamed Alabar was, yet you unexpectedly introduced him to the councilors ‘puff-puff’ at a meeting. Now you state you’re awaiting a ‘letter of intent’ from the UAE. Such an approach breeds suspicion and distrust—justifiably so. I urge Mayor Spajić to respect the decisions and conclusions of the Ulcinj Municipal Assembly, aligning actions with international conventions, the Constitution, and the laws of Montenegro, as well as the needs of Ulcinj’s citizens. You are the Prime Minister of Montenegro, not a representative of any entity or foreign state, and I call for your actions and conduct to reflect this responsibility. Any effort to sidestep the local community will only heighten polarization and tensions, clearly demonstrated by the recent protests, which show that the Ulcinj Municipality’s institutional stance represents the will of its citizens,” the local government leader concluded.

News