UPDATE: Tensions escalate in Botun as residents reject the government’s proposal for a wastewater treatment plant. This decision comes after the Montenegrin government promised residents guarantees regarding the operation of the facility, but locals remain vehemently opposed.
Today, December 10, 2023, residents expressed their discontent during a press conference, stating that the government’s offer is unacceptable. The proposal included assurances that the plant would not operate until the red sludge pool issue is resolved—a longstanding concern for the Zeta community. However, residents argue that the government is repeating previous suggestions made by Saša Mujović, the Mayor of Podgorica, which they find disappointing and inadequate.
“We refuse to accept the government’s proposal. They are not listening to us,” said a local spokesperson. “This is the same offer we heard before, and we will not back down.” The residents’ firm rejection further complicates the situation, which was anticipated to improve following the government’s recent announcements.
Mayor Mujović responded firmly, stating, “There is currently no possibility for negotiation or discussion regarding the location of the wastewater treatment plant.” He emphasized that changing the plant’s location would require extensive new studies, including contamination assessments and geological analyses, which could take up to three years.
The Mayor disclosed that there is no specific timeline for the construction to commence, despite all necessary permits being in place. “We could start tomorrow from a legal perspective,” he affirmed, but reiterated that the plant will not be operational until the sludge pool issue is addressed, a task estimated to cost around €10 million.
As the deadline approaches, with funds from the European Union available until December 31, 2023, the stakes are high. Montenegro must meet these obligations to close Chapter 27 on environmental standards, as the EU has allocated nearly €33 million for the new sewage system and treatment facilities in the capital.
The situation is further intensified by upcoming local referendums. Milan Knežević, leader of the Democratic People’s Party (DNP), announced that results from a crucial referendum on the wastewater collector scheduled for December 14 will be binding.
Knežević warned, “Any police action against the citizens of Zeta will prompt my resignation from the government.” He expressed that he would rather stand with the residents than remain in power if their rights are threatened.
While the government insists it has plans for every potential scenario regarding the collector’s construction, the escalating tension in Botun highlights deep divisions between local governance and community needs. Maida Gorčević, Minister of European Affairs, noted that any delays in construction would lead to significant financial repercussions.
As this situation develops, all eyes are on the upcoming referendum and the government’s next steps. The residents of Botun remain unified in their demand for a solution that acknowledges their concerns. The path forward remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the community will continue to fight for their voices to be heard.
