Montenegro: Thousands gather to protest in Podgorica September 6

Event

Thousands gathered in Podgorica on Sunday, September 6, to denounce recent pro-Serb political rallies held following the August 30 parliamentary election.

The Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS) lost the election last week, and opposition parties, including the pro-Serb Democratic Front, organised rallies celebrating their victory by waving Serbian flags, and raising three fingers in a gesture known as the Serbian salute.

Further protests surrounding the election results are likely in the coming days as the results are finalized.

Context

On Sunday, the final preliminary count gave DPS 35.06 percent of the vote. An alliance of Serb nationalist parties named For the Future of Montenegro won 32.55 percent of the vote. Another two alliances - Peace is Our Nation and an alliance led by the United Reform Action party - won 12.53 percent and 5.53 respectively, and stated they would join pro-Serb parties to form the government.

Montenegro is divided over its relationship with Serbia, with some advocating closer ties and others opposing any links altogether.

Advice

Those in Montenegro are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations and political gatherings as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.