In a recent interview, Danijel Živković, President of the Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS), affirmed that the party remains critical of the Serbian Orthodox Church (SPC) despite their support for the budget of Budva, which includes a donation of €1 million to the church. This decision has raised concerns among some segments of the public, questioning whether the DPS has altered its political stance regarding the church’s influence in Montenegro.
Živković explained that the decision to back Budva’s budget should not be viewed as a shift in the party’s longstanding position against the SPC, which has been accused of undermining the interests of the Montenegrin state. He emphasized that the DPS has consistently advocated for a secular and civil Montenegro, particularly following the local elections in 2024, which saw the opposition coalition led by the Democratic Front (DF) ousted from power after a decade of ineffective governance.
In addressing public concerns about the perceived change in political course, Živković highlighted the DPS’s pivotal role in the transition of local government in Budva. He stated, “We have functional local governance and stable political circumstances, enabling Budva to reclaim its rightful position as a hub of Montenegrin tourism.” He noted that while the budget vote has sparked debate, it does not reflect a departure from the party’s foundational values of anti-fascism, civic engagement, and a commitment to European integration.
The DPS leader articulated his discontent with the substantial allocation to the SPC, describing it as inappropriate for local governance. He argued that the funds could have better addressed pressing needs in areas such as transportation, education, and healthcare infrastructure. Despite this, he underscored the importance of maintaining partnerships that could potentially counteract external political influences from Belgrade, which have historically sought to exert control over Montenegrin affairs.
Živković expressed a desire to avoid elections that could disrupt the newly formed coalition in Budva, emphasizing the importance of stability in governance. He remarked, “We did not wish for extraordinary elections or for the dissolution of partnerships that official Belgrade has failed to resolve.” The coalition, formed under challenging conditions, has managed to celebrate national independence and high state holidays for the first time in a decade, marking a significant cultural shift in the region.
The DPS’s support for the Budva budget comes amidst broader discussions regarding identity issues and external political pressures facing Montenegro. Živković pointed to the dual challenges of populism and nationalism as detrimental to the country’s governance. He reiterated the need for a pro-European government capable of concluding EU negotiations and fostering economic growth.
Looking ahead, Živković acknowledged that the coalition would face challenges but remained optimistic about the potential for collaboration and understanding among partners. He articulated a vision for Montenegro that prioritizes its sovereignty and European perspective, suggesting that political efforts must focus on overcoming historical divides to strengthen the nation’s democratic and economic progress.
As Montenegro navigates these complex dynamics, the DPS asserts its role as a stabilizing force committed to advancing the interests of the state and its citizens. The party emphasizes the necessity of serious dialogue and collaboration among political entities to safeguard the nation’s path towards European integration while maintaining internal unity.
