On Friday hundreds of people gathered in Podgorica, Montenegro, to demand the resignation of political leaders responsible for the country’s security. The protest was in response to the tragic Cetinje massacre on January 1, when 12 people were killed.
Anger over the Cetinje tragedy
Protesters held signs with messages such as “Your hands are bloodstained” and “The system is rotten,” as they stood outside the government building. They chanted “murderers, come out” and “resign,” showing their frustration with the government’s handling of the massacre and calling for those in charge to be held accountable.
Jelena Doderovi?, a local resident, joined the protest on behalf of her children and the wider community. “We are all targets. Shame on the system,” she said, fighting back tears.
Frustration with the government’s leadership
Nikolla Mili?, another protester, said that the rally was not only about the massacre, but also about the growing anger towards the government. He described Montenegro’s leadership as an “occupying government” and criticized Prime Minister Milojko Spaji? and Parliament Speaker Andrija Mandi? for their role in the country’s current crisis.
The protest took place while Montenegro’s National Security Council discussed new security measures aimed at preventing similar tragedies in the future. However, many protestors believe real change will only come if the country’s political leaders step down.
