The new leader of Montenegro is Yakov Milatovich

“End for a New Beginning"-this is how Vijesti, one of Montenegro's leading newspapers, headlines the day after the second round of presidential elections.

The outgoing president Milo Đukanović, leader of the Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS), finally exits the stage after a political career of over thirty years, during which he alternated between the presidency of the Republic and the position of Prime Minister, becoming one of the longest-serving European politicians in power.

Jakov Milatović, esponente di Europa adesso (PSE), ha vinto il ballottaggio con un vantaggio di oltre70.000 voti sul presidente uscente. Secondo i dati ancora non definitivi, Milatović ha ottenuto il60,1% delle preferenze, mentre Đukanović il39,9%. Milatović assumerà l'incarico il20 maggio, quando scadrà il mandato di Đukanović.

A new beginning for Montenegro

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Milatović, who is only37 years old and was only five years old when Đukanović came to power in1991, began to get involved in politics after the2020 elections, serving as Minister of Economic Development in the government of Zdravko Krivokapić. During his tenure, the economic plan "Europe Now", from which his party took its name, was published and is one of the reasons for the success and popularity of the Milatović movement. Thanks to this plan, the minimum salary was increased from222 to450 euros, while the average salary increased from530 to630 euros, although some economists have criticized it, warning of excessive indebtedness and the risk of bankruptcy.

The new president stated, "I will focus on economic diplomacy. I believe that, thanks to the experience gained abroad, I can attract the attention of successful investors from around the world, whose presence in Montenegro has unfortunately been neglected so far. During my term, I will focus on direct contacts with potential partners, who will compensate for missed opportunities and make Montenegro a regional investment center."

** With regard to the European Union, the PSE candidate has stated that Montenegro must become a member within the next five years.

Impact on upcoming parliamentary elections

The results of the presidential elections will likely influence further political processes in the country, particularly the parliamentary elections scheduled for June 11. According to political analysts, Milatović's victory will give new momentum to his party and lead to a decrease in support for Đukanović's party.

The profile of Jakov Milatović

Jakov Milatović was born in1986 in Podgorica, where he completed primary and secondary school.

(Source: Vijesti)