Nikola Zirojevic, a candidate from the European Alliance ticket, claimed that €40,000 was confiscated yesterday at the Rance border crossing and alleged that the money was intended to fund the campaign of Marko Kovacevic, the current mayor of Niksic and head of the For the Future of Niksic coalition.
Speaking at a press conference, Zirojevic stated that the cash was reportedly smuggled in by several individuals, each carrying a portion to conceal the total amount. He said the group received credible information suggesting that the funds were being funneled from Belgrade to support “dirty and illegal” parts of the opposition campaign.
Zirojevic also criticized recent claims by Kovacevic’s coalition, which alleged a “hunt for Serbs” in Niksic. He firmly denied such accusations, calling them a diversion from more pressing issues like alleged vote-buying and illicit campaign financing.
“There is no hunting of anyone in Montenegro,” said Zirojevic, emphasizing unity among citizens regardless of ethnicity or political affiliation. “The real issue is the hunt for illegal money used to manipulate the democratic process.”
He further alleged that vote-buying is underway in Niksic, with offers of cash and employment in public companies such as CEDIS being made in exchange for votes. He urged investigative authorities to act swiftly and thoroughly, and called on citizens to report any knowledge of electoral fraud.
Zirojevic concluded by stating that the local government is in a state of panic ahead of the 13 April elections, sensing electoral defeat. “All the illegal activities and dirty money are in vain,” he said. “Niksic is not for sale.” He expressed confidence in a victory for the European Alliance ticket and a new political chapter for the city.
