Montenegro: Anti-government protest planned in Podgorica April 18, 20 /update 4

Event

Anti-government protests are expected to continue in the capital Podgorica on Thursday, April 18, and Saturday, April 20. Political and civil society groups are planning to gather outside of the public prosecutors’ office on Thursday beginning at 19:00 (local time) to protest government corruption. The demonstration on Saturday is part of an ongoing series of rallies to denounce corruption, the perceived unresponsiveness of government to citizens' concerns, and to demand that the leaders of the current government resign. Protesters are expected to gather outside of the Presidency building, as well as at Independence Square, starting at 18:00. 

Further associated demonstrations are likely in Podgorica in the coming weeks, particularly 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.