The failure to appoint Gordana Kalezić and Milan Remiković as vice governors of the Central Bank of Montenegro (CBCG) represents a step backwards in terms of the full functionality of the Central Bank and the standards of institutional independence, which are key aspects of the European integration process, the institution announced.
They spoke out after yesterday's vote in the Assembly, in which the candidates for the position of vice governor did not receive support.
They said that the independence of the Central Bank of Montenegro is crucial for its operation in accordance with the Constitution and the Law on the Central Bank, and that the selection of the Vice Governor and members of the Council must be based on the principles of professionalism, integrity and credibility - as fundamental principles for preserving the functionality of the institution.
DON'T MISS IT
"It is precisely in this context that Gordana Kalezić and Milan Remiković, candidates with exceptional professional references, have been nominated for the positions of Vice Governor, against whose appointment, from August 2024, when they were proposed until today, not a single argument has been presented. The candidacy of Gordana Kalezić and Milan Remiković, following the election of Dr. Irena Radović as Governor of the Central Bank of Montenegro, represents a continuation of the appointment process for management positions based on professional references and integrity. We emphasize that the failure to appoint the proposed candidates represents a step backward in terms of the full functionality of the Central Bank and the standards of institutional independence, which represent key aspects of the European integration process," the statement reads.
This, they said, is clearly indicated by last week's Joint Conclusions of the Economic and Financial Dialogue between the EU and candidate countries, which specify that "in accordance with the principles of central bank independence, it is necessary to ensure a transparent election of members of the CBCG Council, including vice governors, based on the candidates' competencies and conducted in accordance with the Law on the Central Bank of Montenegro."
They stated that the Central Bank, led by Governor Irena Radović, remains committed to the responsible and lawful performance of its functions, as an independent institution, guided by the principles of professionalism, transparency and public interest.
"Despite the challenges, the CBCG will continue to implement its mandate decisively, in accordance with the legal framework and with full respect for the Constitution of Montenegro and the principles guaranteed by the independence of the Central Bank, acting in the interest of preserving monetary and financial stability and the trust of citizens and international partners in the Montenegrin financial system," the statement reads.
Bonus video:
