POLITICAL INDEPENDENCE OF CBCG COUNCIL MEMBERS UNDER SCRUTINY: IS MONTENEGRO READY FOR CHANGE?
Did you know that members of the Central Bank of Montenegro’s (CBCG) Council are not allowed to be members of political parties? Sounds like a fairy tale rule, but in reality? That’s where the real drama begins! Candidates for the CBCG Council, like Ismet Hadžić and Orahovac, claim they have left their parties, while Srđan Milić still holds membership in the Socialist People’s Party (SNP).
What’s going on?
According to the law, a Council member cannot be a member of a political organization, a parliamentarian, a government member, or hold other positions that could affect their independence. But it seems the rules are interpreted like they’re made of rubber! Candidates were heard before the Committee on Economy, Finance, and Budget, where they defended that they are no longer party members, although media reports suggest otherwise.
Srđan Milić even said, “I stayed in SNP, but what will the committee members do who say they are not party members?” Clearly, this question casts a shadow over the entire selection process.
Why does this matter?
The Central Bank should be a pillar of stability, not a playground for political games! Milić emphasized that the conditions for selecting Council members are outdated and that a public competition should be introduced, as the current system does not guarantee independence. He also warned that interest rates are too high and do not stimulate economic growth, while CBCG lacks instruments to effectively control them.
Political influence or expertise?
Candidates Hadžić and Orahovac claim they have resigned from their parties and will make decisions solely based on economic analysis, free from political influence. But how can we believe that when media and parliamentarians have expressed doubts about their true independence?
Committee Chairman Boris Mugoša even said the law needs changing because it’s questionable whether someone can truly leave a party and be independent. He announced a committee report with candidate proposals, meaning this saga will continue.
What do parliamentarians say?
Parliamentarians asked tough questions about party membership and fiscal strategy, as well as how candidates would handle political pressures. It’s clear this topic divides the public and political elites.
Conclusion?
Montenegro is at a crossroads! Will we have independent experts on the CBCG Council, or will we continue to watch political games suffocating the economy? If you’re tired of these performances, maybe it’s time to loudly ask – who really benefits?
And you? What’s your take? Do you believe it’s possible to be independent in such a system? Drop a comment, let the people’s voice be heard!
