Opposition Organizes Protests in Berane to Uphold Democratic Values

The Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS) is mobilizing supporters for a protest in Berane on September 20, 2023, highlighting concerns over the declining values of antifascism and civic society in Montenegro. According to Sonja Popović, a member of parliament and spokesperson for the DPS, this gathering follows a successful event in Pljevalja and aims to reaffirm the fundamental principles that underpin Montenegro’s identity.

Popović stated that the protests aim to address the perceived threats to antifascist values, particularly in Berane, which she described as a vivid example of these challenges. She emphasized the need for collective action, remarking, “Given the attempts to revive Chetnik ideology and revise history, as evidenced by the illegal erection of a monument to the war criminal Pavle Đurišić, it is essential for all those who care about an independent, antifascist, civic, and European Montenegro to gather in this city.”

The protest comes in response to recent events that have raised concerns about the intentions of local authorities and law enforcement. The DPS anticipates a strong turnout, especially from individuals wary of the legal status of the monument to Đurišić, which has sparked significant public outcry. The party aims to attract those who doubt the police, judiciary, and prosecution’s commitment to addressing this issue lawfully.

DPS President Danijel Živković announced the protests in the state parliament, indicating that the fight for a civic Montenegro would extend beyond institutional efforts. Following a series of gatherings planned in cities where the state is perceived to be most vulnerable, including Berane, Pljevalja, Nikšić, and Herceg Novi, the party seeks to galvanize public support for its cause.

The atmosphere has shifted since the party’s initial optimism, particularly after several individuals, including former security sector officials and businessman Aleksandar Mijajlović, were detained by the Special Police Department just six days before the first event in Pljevalja. Mijajlović has been linked to the formation of a criminal organization, raising alarms about the political climate leading up to the protests.

On September 23, another prominent figure, former minister and senior DPS official Predrag Bošković, was similarly arrested under related accusations. These developments have intensified scrutiny on the current government’s actions and the opposition’s response, marking a pivotal moment in Montenegro’s political landscape.

As the DPS prepares for the upcoming protest in Berane, the party’s leadership remains committed to advocating for the core values of a democratic society, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement in the face of rising authoritarian sentiments.