Knežević Urges EU Official to Engage Botun Residents on Waste Plant

Milan Knežević, the President of the Democratic People’s Party (DNP) in Montenegro, has penned an open letter to Johan Satler, the head of the European Union (EU) Delegation in Montenegro. In his letter, Knežević requests that Satler meet with residents of Botun to discuss the proposed construction of a wastewater treatment plant in the municipality of Zeta.

Knežević expressed concern over the city government’s plans to install a facility that includes a waste incineration unit, which he claims is against the will of the local community. He stated, “Your excellency, Ambassador Satler, I hope you will not mind my media-political freedom to publicly address you regarding the growing crisis due to the intention of the Capital City to install a wastewater treatment plant with an incinerator in the village of Botun, against the will of its citizens.”

He highlighted the local community’s failed attempts to engage with relevant institutions in Montenegro, which he described as having ended in “contempt, ignorance, mockery, and belittlement” of the residents of Zeta, whom he believes have been deemed unworthy of serious discussion. Knežević’s letter serves as a formal appeal to Satler, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the community’s concerns after decades of environmental challenges.

Call for Dialogue and Transparency

Knežević characterized Satler as a “true decision-maker” in Montenegro and urged him to demonstrate European values, including dialogue and transparency. He stated, “My appeal aims for you to live-demonstrate European values, democracy, the Aarhus Convention, dialogue, and generosity by meeting with a delegation of Botun residents.”

He criticized unnamed sources within the EU office in Podgorica, suggesting that their reassurances about the modernity of the proposed facility echoed misleading statements made in the past. Knežević warned that the delegation’s insistence on moving forward with the project raises doubts about their sincerity: “Your motives and at times aggressive insistence that this plant with an incinerator be installed in Botun raises mild suspicion and trembling discomfort regarding the sincerity of your intentions.”

The DNP leader also drew attention to financial matters, noting that nearly €14 million of a total of €33 million allocated for consulting services from EU taxpayers has been earmarked for this project. He argued that EU officials in Brussels should be made aware of the local developments, especially given that the contract for building the facility has remained undisclosed to the Montenegrin public for years.

Potential Consequences and Community Action

Knežević warned that if Satler does not facilitate a meeting with Botun residents, they plan to escalate their concerns to Laura Kovesi, the Chief Prosecutor of the European Union. He believes the project poses a significant risk of corruption that could jeopardize Montenegro’s European aspirations.

He stated, “I must inform you that if you do not take this action, the citizens of Botun will send a letter and all available documentation to Ms. Laura Kovesi.” Knežević emphasized the importance of the EU’s role in Montenegro’s future, stating, “I remain your humble servant on our path to Europe.”

In conclusion, Knežević’s letter reflects the deep-seated concerns of the Botun community regarding environmental impacts and the need for transparency in decision-making processes that affect their lives. The situation underscores the complexities of local governance and the role of international bodies in advocating for citizen rights.