Controversy Erupts Over Pool Covering Costs in Montenegro

The cost of covering a swimming pool in Podgorica has raised eyebrows, with local politician Andrija Klikovac questioning the €10.5 million price tag. Klikovac, head of the Democratic Party of Socialists’ parliamentary club in the Montenegrin capital, highlighted the stark contrast between this expenditure and the budget for constructing an Olympic-sized pool in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, which amounts to approximately €13 million.

This disparity has sparked significant concern among local officials and citizens alike, as Klikovac called attention to the tender issued by the Ministry of Public Administration. He labeled the project a “controversial job” being overseen by Minister Majda Adžović.

“The construction of an Olympic pool in Mostar costs around €13 million, while just the covering of the pool in Podgorica is set at €10.5 million,” Klikovac stated. He urged relevant authorities, including the Special State Prosecutor’s Office (SDT) and other security agencies, to scrutinize the tender process closely.

Klikovac expressed his belief that the financial implications of the project warrant further investigation, suggesting that there may be irregularities involved. “Someone seems to be benefiting unfairly from this situation,” he added, indicating his concerns regarding potential misconduct.

As discussions unfold, the Podgorica project has become a focal point of debate about government spending and transparency. The significant difference in costs has prompted questions about the pricing strategies used in public contracts and the effectiveness of oversight mechanisms in Montenegro’s public administration.

The controversy surrounding the pool covering project highlights the ongoing challenges in ensuring accountability in public spending, particularly in infrastructure projects. With local politicians taking a stand, further scrutiny is expected as the investigation progresses.