UPDATE: The Agencija za sprečavanje korupcije (ASK) has just announced a new competition for the position of director in full mandate, with a new leader expected to be appointed by mid-January 2026. This marks a crucial step for the agency, which has faced significant scrutiny and controversy over the past decade.
Currently, Dušan Drakić serves as the acting director, having taken the role on August 23, 2024. His appointment was intended as a temporary measure, but he has remained in the position amid ongoing debates about the agency’s leadership. The search for a permanent director is heightened by recent controversies, including a retroactive decision regarding valuable watches owned by former president Mila Đukanović, which has led to legal challenges under the Anti-Corruption Law.
The new recruitment process was initiated on April 1, 2025, with the deadline for applications set for April 21. Candidates Dušan Drakić and Milica Milutinović submitted their applications, but neither received the necessary four votes from the council, which includes president Pavle Ćupić and members Mladen Tomović, Alexandra Vukašinović, Slavica Mirković, and Dragana Šuković.
The urgency of appointing a new leader is underscored by the European Union’s recommendations emphasizing the need for stable leadership within the agency. “This process must conclude as swiftly as possible to ensure long-term institutional stability,” stated an ASK official.
In accordance with new regulations established on January 29, 2025, candidates for the director position must possess at least a four-year degree and ten years of work experience, including five in roles related to anti-corruption or human rights. Comprehensive evaluations will include background checks and psychological assessments to ensure candidates meet stringent integrity standards.
As the application period closes, the council will review qualifications and conduct further assessments, including tests on integrity and job-related skills. Successful candidates will face an oral interview to further evaluate their competencies.
The new director will be appointed for a five-year term, with the possibility of serving twice. The urgency surrounding this appointment reflects not only the agency’s need for stable leadership but also the ongoing public interest in its operations and effectiveness.
Expect to see further developments in the coming months as the council deliberates over the candidates. The future of the ASK is at stake, and the choice of its new leader will have significant implications for anti-corruption efforts in the region.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on this critical appointment, as the timeline for selecting a new director is critical for the agency’s future functioning and public trust.
