Bečić: No more neutrality – you're either on the side of the law or the side of crime

Deputy Prime Minister Aleksa Bečić and Minister of Defence Dragan Krapović took part today in the presentation of the capabilities of the Armed Forces of Montenegro, held at Independence Square in Podgorica, as part of the Ministry of Defence's campaign “The Armed Forces in Your City.”

Deputy Prime Minister Bečić emphasized the significant improvements made to the economic and social status of Armed Forces personnel, noting concrete salary increases introduced at the beginning of the year for contract soldiers, non-commissioned officers, officers, and civilian staff.

However, a paycheck alone is not enough if the uniform conceals disloyalty to the system. Let me be absolutely clear: the internal affairs and defence sectors must be thoroughly cleansed of all those who have served clans, interest groups, corruption, organized crime, and smuggling instead of the state. Those who protected the interests of the mafia rather than the citizens. Those who wore the uniform while working against the law, Bečić stated.

He further underscored that a safe and stable Montenegro cannot be built as long as individuals who served organized crime rather than the state remain within its institutions.

Anyone who tolerates, conceals, or downplays such behavior must understand that they do not and will never have my support. In this mission, there are no longer any neutrals. You are either on the side of the law and the state, or you are on the side of crime. And those who choose silence have chosen the wrong side, Bečić concluded.

Defence Minister Dragan Krapović reminded attendees that the Armed Forces of Montenegro are one of the key pillars of the country.

The Armed Forces are not only a symbol of security, but also a guarantor of peace, stability, and the dignity of every citizen, he said.

He highlighted that citizens had the opportunity to directly view some of the equipment used by the Armed Forces and to engage with service members to learn more about the development, modernization, and future preparedness of the defence system.

However, it is important to emphasize that the Armed Forces are not defined solely by their equipment and technology. Their core is the people – the men and women who serve with dedication and carry out their duties daily. That is why today we also presented career opportunities within the Armed Forces. All those who are ready to commit their strength, knowledge, and loyalty to serving the nation and its people will find their place in our ranks. The Armed Forces seek the very best among us – people of honour, discipline, expertise, and courage. Such individuals will be given the place they deserve, Minister Krapović concluded.

As part of the event, a flyover was performed by helicopters from the Montenegrin Air Force.