Police Crackdown on Political Dissent Escalates in Montenegro

Montenegro’s police have initiated legal proceedings against several individuals, including Oskar Huter, a member of the Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS), and Aida Petrović, a member of the Police Oversight Council. This action follows protests that took place outside the Gorica Villa during the controversial awarding of the July 13 Award. The DPS claims this indicates a continued effort by the current government to target its political opponents.

According to statements from the DPS, the police’s actions are part of a broader campaign against dissenters who oppose the government’s policies. During the protest, Huter, alongside numerous citizens, expressed their discontent with the award being given to individuals they associate with fascism and nationalism. They criticized the government’s decision to bestow a prestigious state honor on someone they view as undermining Montenegro’s values and interests.

The DPS emphasized that awarding the July 13 Award, named after a significant date in European anti-fascist history, to such individuals is an affront to the principles of a free and democratic society. The party described the protest as a necessary expression of public outrage against what they consider a violation of democratic principles.

In their communication, the DPS remarked, “To award someone like Vuković the highest state honor is an insult to the values of a free Montenegro.” They firmly stated that the actions taken by the police and the judiciary are seen as attempts to intimidate political representatives.

The party’s statement concluded with a clear message to the current government: “You may abuse all powers—judicial, police, and media—but you cannot intimidate DPS members. Our fight for a civic, anti-fascist, and European Montenegro will not be stopped at any cost.”

As political tensions rise in Montenegro, these developments illustrate a growing divide between the government and its critics, raising concerns about the state of democracy and civil liberties in the region. The DPS has called on supporters to remain vigilant and united against what they perceive as authoritarian measures being implemented by the current administration.