UPDATE: Dritan Abazović, leader of the URA Civic Movement, has publicly condemned the Montenegrin government’s recent offer to residents of Botun, calling it “illegal and discriminatory.” This development comes amid ongoing protests regarding the construction of a collector in the area.
In a heated statement, Abazović criticized the government’s proposal that would grant priority hiring for local residents at the facility. He described this as an outrageous move, asserting, “It is unacceptable to publicly offer something discriminatory against other citizens.” He further questioned the mayor’s understanding of affirmative action, stating, “This is not about buying loyalty for jobs.”
Abazović raised serious concerns over the qualifications of individuals appointed to the management board, emphasizing the need for expertise in a project costing tens of millions of euros, which has faced delays for over a decade. “It is alarming that political appointments are prioritized over qualified professionals,” he asserted.
In a broader context, Abazović highlighted the ramifications of the government’s handling of the controversial case of Do Kwon, the South Korean crypto entrepreneur recently sentenced to 15 years in prison in the U.S. for fraud related to his cryptocurrency ventures. Abazović criticized Prime Minister Milojko Spajić for his prior association with Kwon, stating, “The investigation into the prime minister’s dealings has been inexplicably stalled.”
He detailed Kwon’s history with Terraform Labs, a company at the center of a $40 billion market collapse, questioning why Kwon’s financial ties to Montenegro have not been thoroughly investigated. “It has been two years since the criminal complaint was filed, and it remains unresolved,” Abazović lamented.
The URA leader also addressed growing concerns over political persecution, noting recent violent incidents linked to organized crime. He stated, “While our leaders focus on politically silencing dissent, real threats are being ignored. We demand accountability for all, regardless of political affiliation.”
In a proactive move, Abazović announced the reintroduction of the “Stan za sve” law aimed at providing affordable housing for vulnerable populations, including single parents and young couples. If passed, this legislation would allow citizens to purchase apartments at prices between €900 to €1,000 per square meter, significantly lower than the current market average of €2,200 per square meter. “We’ve lost two valuable years; it’s crucial we act swiftly to provide housing solutions,” he urged.
As the political landscape in Montenegro continues to evolve, Abazović’s remarks underscore a growing urgency for transparency and accountability in governance. The implications of these developments are profound, as citizens demand leaders who prioritize their needs over political expediency.
What’s Next: As protests in Botun escalate, all eyes are on the government’s next steps regarding both the construction project and the ongoing investigations into Kwon’s ties with Montenegrin officials. Abazović’s calls for action resonate strongly among the public, and more developments are expected in the coming days.
