Museum Director Change Sparks Controversy and Legal Action

The recent transition of leadership at the Museum and Galleries of Budva has ignited a legal dispute and accusations of unlawful conduct. Newly appointed director, Ivana Ćupić, successfully entered her office yesterday, despite the absence of key access from the previous director, Lucija Đurašković.

According to Branka Čvorović, the chair of the museum council, Đurašković did not return the office keys but had removed her personal belongings. Consequently, the team resorted to using an alternative key to gain entry. Čvorović declined to disclose whether they had to force the door open or change the lock to access the office. She confirmed that the lock was replaced with all necessary approvals from the municipality.

In a contrasting account, Đurašković claimed that the new administration unlawfully entered her office. “They broke into the office, and the newly appointed director came in using a forged seal,” she stated. She also asserted that she had not received any formal notice regarding her dismissal, which she subsequently reported to the police.

When prompted about the council’s previous assertion that she was informed of her dismissal two weeks prior via courier, Đurašković countered that the communication was misleading. “They sent me a notice stating I was dismissed from a mandate dating back to 2021. This is absurd. I am still performing my duties and have signed the last two salary payments,” she said.

Đurašković referenced the museum’s statute, which she claims allows her to continue in her role until a new director is appointed. She expressed frustration over the prolonged situation, attributing it to the municipality’s failure to appoint a council. “I have been leading the museum during this entire time until a new director is elected. The legitimacy of my role is another matter. I am not to blame for the council’s inaction,” she explained.

In response to inquiries about her recent reluctance to communicate with the new council chair, Đurašković denied the claims made by Čvorović, stating, “Everything she told you is not true. I can prove it, and you should ask them for written documents proving any negotiations with me.”

She indicated that she would approach the Special State Prosecutor’s Office to pursue all legal avenues in defense of what she described as the truth. “Now that they have broken into my office, I am no longer responsible for any potential theft,” she remarked. While she confirmed that she had taken her belongings, she expressed concern about the possibility of valuable items, particularly artworks, being stolen.

When questioned about the motives behind the new administration’s actions, Đurašković suggested, “Perhaps they intend to steal. Why wouldn’t they?” She emphasized her long-standing commitment to the institution, noting her 40 years of service and her role in establishing the museum. “It is disgraceful that this is happening as I approach retirement eligibility,” she added.

She also refuted claims regarding her salary, which Čvorović allegedly stated was €2,500. Đurašković clarified that her earnings were actually €1,900 and that she had never received additional compensation for her work on exhibitions or other museum programs.

Despite the escalating tensions, Ivana Ćupić has yet to comment on the situation. After postponing a response to a media inquiry, she expressed feeling overwhelmed by inappropriate messages related to the police.

In a follow-up statement, Branka Čvorović reassured the public that operations within the museum remained stable, stating, “At present, all employees, the new director, and council members are here. We entered the office regularly, supported by the municipality. We had even received offers for assistance if needed, but everything proceeded smoothly.” She confirmed that the council would hold its first meeting soon, indicating an intent to move forward.