Montenegro’s parliament has adopted constitutional amendments introducing integrity checks for candidates nominated to serve as prime minister and members of the government.
The amendments were approved late Monday following several hours of debate, with 56 lawmakers from the ruling majority, parts of the opposition, minority parties and independent parliamentary groups voting in favour, according to the public broadcaster Radio and Television of Montenegro.
Under the changes, individuals who fail to meet integrity requirements established by law cannot be nominated for the position of prime minister or as members of the government.
The stated aim of the reform is to make government formation more transparent and accountable while strengthening safeguards against corruption and conflicts of interest.
The specific criteria and procedures for conducting the checks will be established through separate legislation. An amendment adopted alongside the constitutional changes requires such legislation to be approved by a two-thirds majority of all members of parliament.
The amendment to Article 91 of Montenegro’s Constitution was agreed following a lengthy recess, at the initiative of independent lawmakers, the Social Democrats and the Civic Movement URA. It stipulates that legislation governing the electoral system, property rights of foreign nationals and integrity checks for government candidates must receive a two-thirds majority in parliament.
Deputy Prime Minister Momo Koprivica said the proposed measures would strengthen democracy and the integrity of state institutions. He also stressed that the changes would not restrict voting rights.
