DPS Accuses PES of Hypocrisy Amid Tensions Over EU Diplomacy

The Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS) has publicly criticized Filip Ivanović, the Deputy Prime Minister, for his recent comments regarding connections to organized crime. The DPS claims that Ivanović’s reaction reflects a deep-seated fear within the Movement for Europe Now (PES) regarding their political standing as they face increasing scrutiny for their alleged duality in policy, particularly in relation to Andrija Mandić and his nationalist agenda.

In an official statement, the DPS emphasized that Ivanović should first address the connections within his own party, as members of PES are reportedly linked to criminal organizations, including alleged associations with leaders of drug cartels. The statement described Ivanović’s calls for DPS members to renounce nonexistent ties to crime as a diversion from more pressing issues.

Despite Ivanović’s history of opposing European integration, the DPS welcomed his newfound interest in European values, suggesting that his change could demonstrate the transformative nature of their party. They noted, “It is perhaps through Ivanović’s example that we can best see the extent to which the DPS has been an emancipatory political force.”

The DPS also pointed out that Ivanović likely feels uneasy about the discussions held by their representatives in Brussels. These conversations have highlighted the challenges posed by his coalition partners, who, according to the DPS, continue to create obstacles on Montenegro’s path toward EU membership. The party stressed that EU accession represents a definitive setback for the so-called “Serbian World” policy, which they believe is incompatible with European principles.

“The EU recognizes that it cannot forge alliances with parties that celebrate historical figures associated with atrocities, while simultaneously seeking consensus for Montenegro’s membership,” the DPS asserted in their statement.

As the political landscape in Montenegro evolves, the DPS, which claims to have the highest support among citizens, expressed their readiness to cooperate with Brussels and member states. They outlined their goal of achieving EU membership for Montenegro by the end of this decade, emphasizing the importance of a united front to overcome existing diplomatic hurdles.

The tensions between the DPS and PES underscore the complexities of Montenegrin politics as the nation navigates its aspirations for European integration amidst internal divisions and external pressures.