(Podgorica, 7 February 2012) – The Union of Free Trade Unions of Montenegro (UFTUM), MANS and the Student Union are preparing another mass-rally this February. We expect an even greater turnout this time around because Montenegro’s citizens are no longer willing to pay the price for on-going corruption.
The last protest we organized showed that our citizens can stand united around existential issues and that a new energy exists in Montenegro that demands the right to a decent life under an honest and clean government.
The energy that was released throughout Montenegro following January’s protest is becoming increasingly stronger with each passing day, while support for the upcoming February protest continues to grow. The organizers have already been contacted by many individuals and business people who have donated materials needed for the protest. MANS has also formed a volunteer center (020 266 326 or mans@t-com.me) accepting all those who want to assist in organizing the protest.
Given that the upcoming protest is also being organized on a volunteer basis, the organizers have planned a number of fundraising events under the motto: “They want to keep their seats; We simply want seats on the bus!” The aim of these events is to raise enough money to ensure that there are sufficient funds available for transporting those living in other cities and who want to attend the protest in Podgorica. Among the planned events is an auction of paintings and handmade jewelry, an amateur football game, a karaoke night, theme parties for youth and literary evenings. Those attending these fundraisers will be paying for someone’s seat on the bus instead of paying for a ticket.
The first karaoke night will be organized at “Pub 111” on Monday (February 13). After this, the first auction of paintings donated by artists will take place to raise further funds for those wanting to attend the February protest. Besides this, Podgorica’s citizens can also expect a number of exciting performances that will point to key problems in our society and that are aimed at further mobilizing citizens to come our for the February protest. The protest organizers are also in touch with a number of bands from the region that are supporting this movement and that are looking to organize shows in Podgorica.
With respect to setting the date for the February protest, the organizers are in constant communication with the Hydro-Meterological Institute in order to track current weather conditions. Given the current situation, it is possible that protests will be delayed till the last weekend in February. The weather should improve at that stage, allowing residents of towns in northern Montenegro to come to the capital.
The organizers are once again calling on all those that are able to support the organization of the protests to call us and help us make February’s protest as successful as possible with their knowledge, skills and talents.
