President Milatović Advocates for Direct Dialogue with Citizens

President of Montenegro, Jakov Milatović, emphasized the importance of direct communication with citizens during a meeting in Danilovgrad on March 14, 2024. Joined by the mayor of Danilovgrad, Aleksandar Grgurović, Milatović aimed to hear directly from the public about their concerns, advocating for a political system that prioritizes engagement over conventional political rhetoric.

Milatović remarked, “Montenegro does not need politicians shut away in offices but rather open discussions with citizens in every municipality and village.” He highlighted the necessity for a political reform that would enable citizens to have a genuine choice in governance. Currently, he noted that citizens lack full freedom in elections, as they cannot directly select their municipal presidents, and party lists often distance politicians from the electorate.

In advocating for change, Milatović proposed the introduction of open party lists, which would allow voters to select individual candidates rather than being limited to party slates. He believes this reform would enhance the responsiveness of politicians to the needs of the public. He also announced plans to put this issue to a referendum, seeking a clear mandate from the citizens.

Economic Focus and Agricultural Support

The discussion further delved into the urgent need for reforms within Montenegro’s economic system. Milatović stressed that the state must reorient its focus towards economic issues, as the current economic climate presents significant challenges. He pointed out that the growth rate is insufficient, while inflation remains high, creating a troubling combination of low growth and soaring prices.

He stated, “We have strayed too far from economic topics. I want to bring the focus back to the economy and living standards.” Milatović highlighted the need for serious economic discussions about a sustainable model for growth and development. He noted that Montenegro currently experiences one of the lowest competitiveness rates in its economy, with imports vastly outpacing exports.

Additionally, he pointed out a decline in tourism revenues, decreased investment, and poor investment structure, calling for an economy built on labor, knowledge, production, and export. Milatović underlined that increasing the agricultural and capital budgets is crucial for rural development, stating that “the only way to keep people in rural areas is to enhance funding for agriculture and ensure that subsidies reach actual producers.”

Governance and European Integration

Milatović also addressed the need for reform in the management of state enterprises, asserting that these entities should function as engines of development rather than serve partisan interests. He advocated for good governance of state enterprises to become an integral part of the system, possibly even enshrined in Montenegro’s constitution.

On the topic of Montenegro’s European integration, Milatović underscored the urgency of accelerating reforms to reap the benefits of EU membership, particularly in terms of economy, investments, job creation, and institutional stability. He expressed a vision for Danilovgrad to exemplify how economic reforms, agricultural support, and strategic use of state and EU funds can improve the everyday lives of citizens.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Milatović reiterated that engaging in conversations like these across all municipalities is vital for defining priorities and restoring political accountability to where it belongs—with the citizens and their pressing issues.