Tensions Escalate Between Đukanović and Abazović in Montenegro Assembly

Verbal conflicts erupted during a session of the Skupština Crne Gore on March 2024, as Milutin Đukanović, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Elektroprivreda, clashed with Dritan Abazović, leader of the GP URA. The exchange, which took place amidst discussions regarding environmental damage in the municipality of Pljevlja, involved serious accusations and personal insults.

During the session, Abazović asserted that the judiciary should take action concerning the operation of the reconstructed Termoelektrana Pljevlja. He emphasized that those responsible for the environmental issues should face criminal charges. “If the power plant is of special significance, as it is for our electricity system, you should have proposed a lex specialis to validate your actions,” he stated. Abazović’s comments indicated that failure to do so constituted a deliberate criminal act, potentially leading to prison sentences of between one to three years under specific provisions of the criminal code.

Abazović was adamant about not letting the matter fade away, asserting, “If you think we will allow you to mock the state because of a private agreement, forget it! We will not permit self-licensing for future energy projects.” His remarks were aimed at ensuring accountability and transparency in the energy sector.

In response, Đukanović insultingly referred to Abazović as a “complete fool,” escalating the tension further. The exchange continued with Abazović warning Đukanović, “This is the last time you will say that. Last time your blood sugar rose, I left you alone!” To this, Đukanović retorted with, “Shame on you,” to which Abazović replied with equal disdain, “You will go to jail.”

Following this heated exchange, Dragan Đurović, the session chairman, intervened, acknowledging the heightened tensions in politics. He urged the public to maintain tolerance regarding political disagreements, noting that political alliances can shift unexpectedly.

The incident highlights ongoing conflicts within Montenegrin politics, particularly regarding environmental accountability and energy management. The exchange between Đukanović and Abazović underscores the challenging dynamics in the governance of Montenegro, where personal animosities seem to intertwine with critical national issues.