Six Years of Chaos Over Montenegro’s Airport Concession!
Did you know Montenegro has been trying for six years to decide who will manage the airports in Podgorica and Tivat? Yes, six years! And what do we have? Nothing but endless delays, scandals, and legal battles threatening to ruin the country’s reputation.
A Tender That Lasts Longer Than a War?
It all started during Duško Marković’s government when an international tender for airport concession was announced. Since then, deadlines have shifted like a roller coaster, with the latest unofficial deadline being July 28 this year. Milojko Spajić’s government announced it would decide on the concessionaire or abandon the deal. But even that wasn’t easy.
French-Turkish Favorite Withdraws Over Rule Changes!
The French-Turkish consortium Aeroports de Paris TAV, considered the favorite, withdrew due to changes in key contract provisions, especially regarding the one-time concession fee. This fee now must be paid within 30 days, even if the contract does not come into force! Is that fair? They also announced possible lawsuits.
Fights, Accusations, and an International Scandal!
The tender commission was divided, accusing each other of favoritism. The International Finance Corporation (IFC), part of the World Bank and government consultant, expressed deep concern over the evaluation of technical bids, claiming the commission violated rules. IFC even threatened to withdraw from the process, a serious warning for Montenegro.
Re-voting and Legal Battles
After Prime Minister Spajić’s intervention, the commission re-voted, but no candidate passed the threshold. Luxembourg company Corporación América Airports announced a lawsuit over irregularities. Commission president Nik Đeljošaj is demanding IFC take responsibility for the consequences of their interpretations, showing how chaotic the situation is.
What About the Citizens?
Six years of precious time lost for airport modernization, and Montenegrin citizens still have no answer on who will manage this vital resource. Instead of transparency and efficiency, we have legal disputes, political quarrels, and international scandals.
Is This the Image of a Country Wanting to Join Europe?
This chaos casts a shadow on Montenegro’s reputation and could seriously jeopardize the country’s European path, especially in Chapter 5 on public procurement. If the tender is not completed legally and acceptably, the consequences will be catastrophic.
Conclusion: Who’s to Blame?
Is it poor organization, political games, or incompetence? Probably all of the above. But one thing is clear – Montenegrin citizens deserve better than six years of dragging and uncertainty.
What do you think about this mess? Is it time for someone to finally take responsibility, or will we keep watching time fly while airports decay? Share your thoughts, maybe your critique will spark change!
