Montenegro: Anti-government march planned in Podgorica April 6 /update 3

Event

Opposition groups and civil society organizations are planning to stage protest marches in the vicinity of Independence Square on Saturday, April 6, beginning at 18:00 (local time). The weekly demonstrations are to denounce corruption, the perceived unresponsiveness of government to citizens' concerns, and to demand that the leaders of the current government resign. 

Demonstrations are expected to continue in Podgorica over the coming weeks, especially on Saturdays. Heightened security measures and localized traffic disruptions are to be expected near any protests.

Context

These regular protests, organized by the "97,000 Resist" movement, have been ongoing since early February in response to allegations of government corruption and have drawn thousands of people. President Milo Đukanović has ruled the country in some capacity since 1991; protesters seek his resignation from office.

On March 30, amid the seventh consecutive Saturday demonstration, all 39 opposition members of parliament signed a unity pledge, agreeing to unite efforts to fight Đukanović's administration and to seek new elections.  

Advice

Individuals in Podgorica are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.