Andrej Kaluđerović, a representative of the employees of Montenegro’s Railway Infrastructure (ŽICG) who have been on strike since Friday, denied claims that he refused negotiations or rejected the proposed collective agreement.
“I personally attended the meetings together with my colleagues Dražen Lukačević and Dejan Stanović. Decisions were never made individually but always collectively. It is unclear why I am being singled out and targeted, when the truth is entirely different. This practice is an attempt to discredit and pressure us. It is particularly disheartening to live in a system where words and arguments hold no value, as clearly demonstrated by management’s behavior,” Kaluđerović said.
He emphasized that threats of criminal charges will neither discourage nor intimidate them.
“We carry out our duties conscientiously, responsibly, and in accordance with the law. That is why we persist in fighting for justice and dignity for employees. We believe in the country’s legal institutions and are confident that their full involvement will allow an objective assessment of all circumstances and lead to a fair decision,” Kaluđerović added.
He reiterated that he has never refused negotiations and will never obstruct the normal functioning of the railway system.
“My only goal is for employees to have fair working conditions, because only then can the railway system remain stable and serve the citizens. Once again, we strongly appeal for all competent authorities, including the Government of Montenegro, to become involved, as this concerns public interest and the operation of key national infrastructure,” Andrej Kaluđerović stated.
