The push for significant electoral reform in Montenegro is faltering as political parties fail to prioritize necessary changes. Marija Vesković, an advisor to the President of Montenegro, emphasized this concern during a recent statement, highlighting the urgency as the country approaches crucial negotiations and reforms.
Concerns Over Lack of Political Will
Vesković pointed out that the stagnation within the Election Reform Committee, coupled with the delayed extension of its mandate, signals a lack of genuine political will to implement essential reforms. “This is a message that indicates there is no real political will to carry out radical electoral reforms,” she stated.
As a member of a working group tasked with amending laws on the election of municipal and parliamentary representatives, Vesković noted that the committee has convened only once in the past six months. This session was merely a constitutive meeting, demonstrating a concerning lack of interest among lawmakers regarding electoral reform, particularly regarding the introduction of open electoral lists.
“Other than declarative support, there have been no concrete steps indicating that such a solution will be included in the law,” she added. “Instead of progress, we are witnessing delays and postponements.”
Implications for Citizens
The proposal to hold a referendum on the introduction of open electoral lists has been pending for over two months without any decision, which Vesković argues sends a clear message to citizens: efforts to strengthen their voting power are being sidelined.
“If key reforms are constantly pushed aside, while discussions on increasing funding for political parties proceed without delay, it is understandable why citizens doubt the sincerity of promises to ‘open’ the electoral system,” she explained.
Vesković highlighted the inconsistency in the legislative process, noting that it is possible to adopt dozens of laws in under two hours. “If there is a will, time and majority can be found,” she stated. “When something is not desired, excuses are always available.” This situation calls for a demonstration of political maturity and adherence to promised reforms.
As Montenegro faces a critical juncture, Vesković urged lawmakers to resume work on electoral reform as swiftly as possible. She emphasized the importance of using the remaining time effectively so that citizens can vote for candidates by name in the upcoming 2027 elections.
The growing frustration among citizens regarding the lack of progress in electoral reform is becoming increasingly evident, and the pressure is mounting on political leaders to take decisive action before the next election cycle.
