The city of Budva has announced it can afford to pay its employees a winter bonus, while the capital, Podgorica, struggles to meet even the modest sum of €500 for its workers. This disparity raises serious questions about financial management and political priorities in Montenegro.
Filip Terzić, the President of the Youth Council of the Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS) and a member of the municipal assembly in Podgorica, highlighted this contrast in a recent post on social media platform X. He questioned whether the mayor is attempting to “discipline” city employees or if decisions are being influenced by political bias against dissenters.
“In both cases, the citizens and workers are the ones who pay the price,” Terzić stated, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in local governance. He called for answers rather than excuses, suggesting that the situation reflects broader issues of mismanagement or political maneuvering.
Budva’s ability to provide bonuses stands in stark contrast to Podgorica’s financial difficulties, despite the latter having a budget more than double that of Budva. This situation underscores a growing concern among residents about the equitable distribution of resources within the country.
As the debate unfolds, citizens are eager for clarification on how their tax money is being utilized and whether political interests are overshadowing the needs of the workforce. The call for accountability is becoming increasingly urgent as residents seek a government that prioritizes their welfare over political agendas.
The implications of this financial divide extend beyond mere bonuses. It raises critical questions about the operational effectiveness of local governments and their commitment to the communities they serve. As the situation develops, it is clear that both Budva and Podgorica must address these disparities to foster trust and stability among their citizens.
