"We want to make it clear: we are not against investments, but we are against Ulcinj disappearing under the weight of a megalomaniacal project. This is not about building a few hotels and sustainable development - this is about the complete privatization of the best part of Ulcinj, perhaps even the whole of Montenegro. Ulcinj cannot and must not be a city where only one person is asked, while the citizens do not have any direct benefits," said Ilir Harasani, a member of the Main Board of the Civic Movement URA.
In a statement to the media, he said that Ulcinj is a city with a long history, rich tradition and priceless natural beauty, and Velika Plaza is one of its most valuable treasures - not only for the people of Ulcinj, but for all of Montenegro. He pointed out that they are therefore following with concern the announcements about the possible sale of almost 20 million square meters of land on Velika Plaza to Mohamed Alabar, which would mean that the fate of that area, and the future of the city of Ulcinj, is decided by only one man.
"Additional concern is caused by the way this process is being conducted. Yesterday, Prime Minister Milojko Spajić presented us with a model that was allegedly created in just two days, which we consider extremely frivolous when it comes to a project that can shape the fate of four future generations. Also, today in the Ulcinj Municipal Assembly, we clearly expressed our opposition to this approach," said Hasani.
He noted that there are currently no planning documents to support this project: there is no spatial plan of Montenegro, no spatial plan of the municipality of Ulcinj, no detailed urban plans, nor any technical documentation - neither a conceptual design nor a main project. Therefore, he asks how it is possible to decide on something that will permanently change the face of Ulcinj.
"We already have bad experiences with closed complexes that have denied citizens and tourists access to the beaches. Imagine a situation in which almost the entire Velika Plaza becomes private property and where only one person is in charge of it! This is unacceptable, it serves no one except the private interest of the individual, and Ulcinj and its future must not be victims of such an approach.
"Also, the way the procedures were carried out raises serious doubts. From Mr. Alabar's entry into the tender for the lease of the beaches, to the extension of the application deadline, to the way Prime Minister Spajić presented this project - as if he were not the Prime Minister of all citizens, but the representative of a private investor - everything indicates that the process was not transparent and that there are numerous reasons for concern," Harasani pointed out.
Because of all the above, he adds, the Municipal Board of the Ulcinj URA clearly sends a message that Ulcinj is not for sale.
"We do not put the future of our city in the hands of one man. We are ready to support development and investments, but not at the cost of losing the identity of Ulcinj and its resources. Decisions of this importance must be made carefully, in the interest of all citizens, and not in favor of one investor," concluded Harasani.
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