Živković Reflects on DPS’s Past Successes and Current Challenges

The President of the Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS) of Montenegro, Danijel Živković, recently discussed the party’s historical achievements during its 30 years in power and the challenges it currently faces in opposition. In an interview on TVCG’s “Argumenti,” Živković acknowledged the comfort that came with holding power but noted that the political landscape has changed significantly since the party transitioned to opposition on August 30, 2020.

Živković emphasized that the DPS achieved remarkable successes during its time in government, attributing these victories to numerous officials and leaders across various sectors. He stated, “While it was enjoyable and victories were frequent, various privileges were in play, making it comfortable to be part of the Democratic Party of Socialists.”

Now, as the party navigates its role as the strongest political entity in Montenegro, Živković highlighted the difficulties faced in the current political environment. He pointed out that the DPS must adapt to an opposition role while maintaining its status amid public scrutiny and challenges from security institutions and the judiciary.

The recent departure of MP Nikola Janović from the party raised concerns about the potential impact on the DPS’s reputation. Živković noted that departures are not uncommon, recalling previous exits from prominent party figures, including Sanja Damjanović and Duško Marković. He expressed confidence that Janović’s exit would not significantly harm the party’s support, citing that the DPS’s approval ratings have remained stable even with such departures.

Janović, who served as Minister from 2016 to 2020 and was a prominent member of the party, contributed significantly to its strength, according to Živković. “It would have been better for him to stay in the DPS, but he chose his own political path,” he said, reflecting on their amicable parting. He reaffirmed that Janović’s decision to retain his parliamentary mandate was his right, and he respected that choice.

The interview also touched on the recent exit of Drita Lola, with Živković responding to her claims of autocracy within the party. He invited open dialogue, stating that if anyone believes he operates as an autocrat, they should feel free to discuss it within party forums. “I have not heard any such concerns during my leadership,” he remarked, indicating a commitment to transparency and internal democracy.

Živković emphasized that the DPS remains the most refreshed party in terms of personnel, countering narratives that it is declining. He recalled that following the 2020 elections, many expected the DPS to fade from the political scene. “They believed our politics was based on material interests, yet we have shown resilience,” he stated.

Despite facing a campaign of discreditation, Živković reported that the DPS’s approval rating has risen by over 7% in the past two years. He asserted that the true measure of reform will depend on the citizens’ expectations and reactions, rather than external pressures or criticisms.

As the DPS continues to navigate its opposition status, Živković’s reflections underscore both the party’s historical significance and its ongoing challenges in maintaining relevance and support in the evolving political landscape of Montenegro.