Local Mayor Sparks Controversy Over Zeta Territory Claims

Saša Mujović, the Mayor of Podgorica, has ignited a contentious debate regarding the territory of the Zeta Municipality. His recent initiative, which involves petitioning the Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development, and Northern Development to propose the Red Mud Basin near the Aluminium Plant as an area of public interest, has drawn sharp criticism from Zeta officials.

In a statement released by the Zeta Municipality, local authorities accused Mujović of opportunism, claiming he is attempting to position himself as a savior regarding the environmental concerns surrounding the Red Mud Basin. They assert that his sudden interest in the issue comes only after facing political pressure related to the construction of a waste treatment facility in Botun.

The Zeta officials expressed frustration, stating that they have been actively addressing the Red Mud Basin problem for months through various channels, but their efforts have gone unrecognized. They emphasized that Mujović’s involvement now appears insincere, suggesting he only became aware of the issue due to his diminished political standing.

“It has become tiresome to engage in debates with someone who has no authority over Zeta. We urge Mujović and others to refrain from interfering in our territory as they have too many unresolved issues in their own,” the Zeta Municipality stated, underscoring their determination to manage local affairs independently.

Despite previous assurances that they would not engage further with Mujović, Zeta officials reiterated their stance against the construction of the waste treatment facility in Botun. They stressed that Mujović had an opportunity to consider Zeta’s interests during the delimitation process, but progress has stalled since those initial discussions.

The Zeta Municipality has provided documentation, including requests and correspondence directed towards relevant institutions, to illustrate their proactive approach to resolving the Red Mud Basin issues long before Mujović’s recent involvement. They argue this history of engagement should not be overlooked in the current discourse.

In light of this escalating situation, the Zeta authorities remain firm in their commitment to protect their territory and address environmental concerns without external interference.