Families of the victims from two mass shootings in Cetinje, Montenegro, have expressed their outrage over the reported re-employment of former Regional Security Center chief Goran Jokic. This decision has been perceived as a direct insult to the families who have been seeking justice since the tragic events occurred.
In a public statement, the families, alongside citizens of Cetinje, called attention to the situation, reaching out to international media, human rights organizations, and relevant institutions monitoring the rule of law and security in Montenegro. They emphasized that Jokic’s new position undermines their quest for accountability and justice, given his previous role during the incidents that led to the loss of innocent lives.
For eleven months, the families have engaged in peaceful protests, blocking traffic at the Krusevo Zdrijelo intersection. Their demands have centered on uncovering the truth and ensuring justice for those who perished. They clarified that their protests were not politically motivated and did not aim for any material gain. Instead, they sought accountability for systemic failures that allowed two mass shootings to occur in their community.
On March 15, 2024, the families issued five key demands, with the primary goal being the establishment of accountability and leadership changes within the security system. Following the removal of Jokic, they expressed cautious optimism, temporarily suspending their daily protests in the belief that institutions would finally accept their responsibility.
The announcement regarding Jokic’s potential new role has reignited their frustrations. They stated, “This move is perceived as a direct affront to the families of the victims and a blatant disregard for any attempts to establish accountability.” The families highlighted concerns about the lack of transparency regarding Jokic’s assets, which reportedly far exceed what could be justified by the salary of a police official in Montenegro.
The families and community members pointed out that, instead of a thorough and independent review of Jokic’s wealth and potential accountability, there appears to be an administrative effort to sidestep the issue. They warned that such practices further erode public trust in institutions and raise serious questions about the existence of political protection within the security sector.
The citizens of Montenegro engaged in protests are not asking for increased salaries, pensions, or political favors. Their demands are focused on basic accountability for lost lives. They insist that the system must demonstrate that the lives of their loved ones are valued more than political positions and party interests. They assert that the responsibility for mass murders and systemic failures cannot be dismissed or obscured by personnel changes or the passage of time.
The families vowed to continue their fight for justice, asserting that they will not passively observe efforts to evade accountability. They plan to utilize all democratic and legal means necessary to uphold their right to truth and justice, stating, “We will reach out to all relevant international institutions, organizations, and partners of Montenegro that monitor human rights and the rule of law. We will not allow the crimes to be forgotten. We owe it to the victims, to our children, and to the future of this country.”
