English

Kemp: Parties should reach compromise in the parliament

Alison Kemp

Real progress and reforms come only after discussions in state structures and institutions, assessed Ms Alison Kemp, the Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Montenegro, in an interview with Dan, a daily. She urged political parties to try to make a compromise in the parliament and resolve the current political situation.

Here are the key moments from the Ambassador’s interview with Dan daily…

How do you see overcoming the political crisis in MNE since the reform of the election legislation still hasn’t started and parliamentary elections are to be held next year?

Kemp: …

Politicians in Montenegro with whom I have talked to recognize the need for the implementation of the international recommendations regarding conditions for the forthcoming elections through the reform of the existing election legislation (ODIHR recommendations). Their aim is to develop trust of citizens in the election process, that is, the trust of political entities in the election outcomes.

It is necessary to pay attention to some fundamental issues, such as the Media Law and the Law on MPs’ immunity.

Even though we don’t have much time, I urge the parties to find compromise in the parliament. It’s not so bad to make it if it’s in line with your values and if it contributes to greater democracy.

What do you think about the request of the opposition to establish a technical government and the government’s answer strongly denying it?

Kemp: It’s up to the political parties to decide whether they are going to have enough mutual understanding and common vision of possible cooperation through the technical government.

As for the parliamentary discussion about the key issues, such as the election reforms, appointments in key institutions, new media laws or future concessions, all political parties must have a constructive and principled approach. The real progress and reforms may come only as the result of discussions in state structures and institutions.

The media community, as well as numerous NGOs, claim that amendments to the Law on Data Protection and Free Access to Information restrict media freedom and serve as a mechanism for hiding information indicating corruption and crime. What do you think about this?

Kemp: The law on free access to information represents the main tool for a civil society and investigative journalism, and that is why I am very interested in the process of amending the Law on Free Access to Information and the Data Secrecy Law. In every country, the government should ensure the balance between the need for transparency and national security. Democracy and respect for fundamental human rights depend on the possibility for the public to have free access to information: access to data prevents violations by the government’s institutions, officials and private entities and creates possibilities for the public to take part in government’s policies.

The UK believes that the freedom of media represents a key factor of fundamental freedoms in the Western Balkans, WB, which is the reason why we allocated £9.5 million for the WB in the next 2 years, in order to strengthen media, including investigative journalism.

Boycott has an adverse impact

The role of DIK, ASK and RTCG is very important for achieving fair and democratic institutions. How do you comment on the dismissals in these institutions, and that the government is ignoring the fact that delivered verdicts found them [dismissals] to be illegal?

Kemp: The United Kingdom keeps supporting reforms in Montenegro not only to contribute to the enhancement of security and stability, but also because they are key to the EU integration process. I carefully monitor the changes in the governance structures and achievements of DIK, ASK and RTCG. Effective and impartial management in these institutions is important for the protection and promotion of fundamental rights, good governance practices and democratic elections in Montenegro. Every step that Montenegro and politicians make for strengthening democracy, the rule of law, fight against corruption and serious organized crime represents progress in terms of improving the quality of life and business environment, and developing a better future for all.

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