Representatives from various local organizations, including the Beach Renters Association, the Ada Bojana Restaurant Association and the Ada Bojana Community, held a press conference to address concerns regarding the non-transparent tender process for beach leases. They announced a protest gathering on Saturday, March 22, at 12 PM near the new bridge at Port Mileni, inviting local politicians, ministers, NGOs, activists, students, and “all people of goodwill who love Ulcinj” to participate.
Albert Kastrati, the President of the Štoj Local Community, emphasized the need for transparency in the tender process, expressing concerns over irregularities, lack of information, and favoritism toward foreign investors. He pointed out that the process discriminated against long-term local leaseholders, jeopardizing their livelihoods.
Kastrati also questioned the intentions behind the involvement of foreign investors, particularly one rumored to be planning a “mega project” resembling a Dubai-style development. He expressed concerns about its impact on local residents and the private accommodation sector, calling for a more inclusive and transparent approach to decision-making.
Ulcinj’s Mayor, Genci Nimanbegu, also supported the protest, stressing that while the local government is not opposed to investment, it insists on greater local involvement in decisions regarding coastal concessions. He reiterated the need for legal changes that would allow local municipalities to have more authority over such matters.
Valentina Bogojević, representing the Ada Bojana Restaurant Association, criticized the high fees and the negative impact of the tender on the survival of local businesses, highlighting the harm it could cause to the community.
Prelja Škrelja, President of the Beach Renters Association, expressed frustration with the lack of responses to their petitions sent to the Constitutional Court and other institutions since February 24.
The Director of the Ulcinj Tourist Organization, Ćazim Hodžić, expressed his concern about the situation but assured that the issue would likely be resolved soon, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with investors in line with local needs and priorities.
