Montenegrin Lawmakers Seek Amendments on Petrović-Njegoš Dynasty Status

Legislators from the New Serbian Democracy party, Dejan Đurović and Jovan Vučurović, have proposed amendments to the Law on the Status of Descendants of the Petrović-Njegoš dynasty. Their aim is to remove a clause that states the dynasty was “deposed in violation of the Constitution for the Principality of Montenegro by the act of violent annexation of the state in 1918.”

The proposed changes, reported by Antena M, suggest that Article 1 should be revised to state, “for the historical and moral rehabilitation of the Petrović-Njegoš dynasty, this law regulates issues of significance for the status of descendants of the Petrović-Njegoš dynasty.” Vučurović emphasized the importance of eliminating any unilateral historical interpretations contained in the current text of the law.

Vučurović remarked, “The Petrović family belongs to all of Montenegro, and we should find common ground on this issue.” He asserted that the narrative of annexation is unfounded, as there was neither an annexation of Montenegro nor a forcible integration. According to Vučurović, “The people of Montenegro overwhelmingly supported unification in 1918, which has been a centuries-old aspiration of our nation and one of the most significant dates in our history.”

He further pointed out that the will of the people for unification was confirmed at the People’s Consultations in 1920, reinforcing the legitimacy of that historical moment. “However, we have other interpretations as well, and therefore the text of the law should be freed from these interpretations,” he added.

The proposed amendments reflect ongoing discussions about the historical context and legacy of the Petrović-Njegoš dynasty in Montenegro. As the debate unfolds, the impact on national identity and historical narratives continues to resonate in contemporary Montenegrin society.