Residents of Botun, a village in Montenegro, staged a protest on March 15, 2024, expressing their opposition to environmental damage caused by construction machinery in the area. The protest aimed to be peaceful, focusing on raising awareness about the community’s plight and calling for action from local authorities.
Bojan Terzić, a representative of the Botun community, emphasized the need for calm demonstrations while urging local officials to respond to the community’s concerns. He stated, “We do not want anything to happen here other than what we have announced.” Terzić pointed out that they had successfully prevented individuals from arriving with tractors and construction equipment, but he questioned how long this could continue.
The protest was aimed at urging the Government of Montenegro to listen to the cries for help from the Zeta region. Terzić thanked the local populace for their support, stating, “Zetski narode, hvala vam što ste se odazvali ovom vapaju za spas Zete,” which translates to “Zeta people, thank you for responding to this cry for the salvation of Zeta.” He highlighted that the struggle was not just for Botun but for the entire Zeta area, asserting that the land, which has nurtured generations, should not be poisoned by construction activities.
Despite the community’s desire for peaceful protests, Terzić warned that tensions could escalate if the authorities failed to take action. He remarked, “We will not allow this to happen. All pressures directed towards us will be shared among this defenseless people.” His words underscored a growing frustration with the perceived neglect by those in power.
In a show of solidarity, local resident Jagoš Bećirović expressed regret for any inconvenience caused to travelers due to the protest. He placed the blame squarely on Saša Mujović, a local official, saying, “Had he done his job honorably, we would not be here today.” Bećirović criticized Mujović for allegedly supporting a detrimental agreement that threatens the environment, insisting that the community would not participate in actions that compromise their land.
The protestors had notified the police about their plans to block roads, and Terzić confirmed they had received assurances of protection from law enforcement. He stated, “We are not here to cause disturbances; we are just people fighting for our land.” This declaration illustrated the community’s commitment to peaceful advocacy while remaining firm in their demands.
As the protest unfolded, the residents expressed their determination to stand united against any encroachment on their land. Terzić concluded by calling for immediate dialogue with the relevant authorities, insisting that the community’s voice must be heard in the decision-making process that affects their future.
As tensions continue to rise, the local government faces increasing pressure to address the environmental concerns raised by the residents of Botun. The outcome of this protest may significantly impact the future of the Zeta region and its relationship with the authorities.
