Duško Knežević, a former ally of Milo Đukanović, faces serious accusations in Montenegro. Allegations include fraud and money laundering.
Claims of Political Motivation and Pressures
Duško Knežević, once among Montenegro’s wealthiest figures, was extradited from the UK in April. Since then, he remains jailed in Montenegro, awaiting trial for alleged financial crimes. His lawyer, Toby Cadman, argues the charges are politically motivated. Authorities in Podgorica reportedly want Knežević to provide incriminating evidence against Milo Đukanović, the former president. Knežević denies all charges, asserting he is being coerced by the government.
The Rise and Fall of a Business Tycoon
Knežević, founder of the Atlas Group, once belonged to Đukanović’s inner circle. Their collaboration thrived during Montenegro’s transition to a market economy in the 1990s. Knežević profited from Đukanović’s policies, gaining influence in banking, real estate, and other sectors. However, their alliance fractured in the 2010s. Disputes over a privatization deal and accusations of money laundering deepened the rift. Knežević accused Đukanović of attempting a hostile takeover of his assets.
In 2019, Knežević publicly exposed alleged corruption within Đukanović’s party. A video showed him handing an envelope containing nearly €100,000 to a party member. This “envelope scandal” highlighted corruption but failed to bring Đukanović’s regime down directly.
Montenegro’s EU Aspirations at Stake
Despite Đukanović’s political fall, Montenegro’s systemic challenges remain. Cadman criticized Montenegro’s judicial system, expressing concerns over Knežević’s safety and chances of a fair trial. He argued that without reform, Montenegro is unprepared for EU membership.
Experts agree Montenegro must address judicial inefficiencies and high-level corruption. Political scientist Jelena Džankić highlighted that bribery and clientelism persist under the current government. Historian Kenneth Morrison noted that post-Đukanović leaders continue practices of the previous regime.
While Montenegro hopes to join the EU by 2028, challenges in governance and law enforcement threaten this goal. Reform, especially in combating corruption, remains critical to the country’s aspirations.
