Montenegro elections: Long-standing leader Milo Djukanovic suffers defeat

Milo Djukanovic, the former prime minister and president of Montenegro, stepped down after dominating politics in the Balkan nation for over three decades. Djukanovic played a key role in Montenegro’s NATO membership and pro-Western policies. He also oversaw the country’s split from Serbia in 2006 during his time in office. Djukanovic’s decision to leave politics came as a surprise to many, given his tight grip on power and the lack of a clear successor within his Democratic Party of Socialists.

Djukanovic first became Montenegro’s prime minister in 1991, just before Yugoslavia disintegrated into a brutal war. He weathered the tumult of that period and used a mix of authoritarianism, populism, and pro-European sentiments to stay in power for more than three decades. Djukanovic’s tenure in office was not without controversy, with accusations of corruption and cronyism dogging him throughout the years. However, he also helped modernize Montenegro’s economy and brought the country closer to Western institutions.

Djukanovic’s departure from politics comes at a time when Montenegro faces a slew of challenges. The country is grappling with high unemployment, organized crime, and political polarization. Meanwhile, tensions between Montenegro and Serbia have been simmering since Montenegro gained independence in 2006, with some Serbians critical of the country’s pro-Western orientation.

Despite these challenges, Djukanovic expressed optimism about Montenegro’s future in his farewell speech, saying that the country had “changed a lot” during his time in office. He also emphasized the need for tolerance and unity in the face of political divisions. Djukanovic’s resignation sets the stage for a new era in Montenegro’s politics. While it remains to be seen who will succeed him as the leader of the Democratic Party of Socialists, his departure presents an opportunity for younger generations to step up and set a new course for the country.



Source link