Vesna Moštrokol Resigns Amid Appeals in Montenegro Coup Case

Vesna Moštrokol, the president of the panel overseeing the high-profile “coup” case in Montenegro, has resigned from her position. This decision, made on her personal request, was confirmed today by the Judicial Council, which noted the end of Moštrokol’s judicial function as a judge on the Appellate Court of Montenegro.

The resignation comes as the appellate panel, previously led by Moštrokol, is set to make a crucial ruling on an appeal from the Special State Prosecutor’s Office (SDT). This panel also included Judge Zorica Milanović as the rapporteur and Judge Predrag Tabas as a member. The SDT’s appeal seeks to overturn a prior verdict from the High Court in Podgorica, which acquitted all defendants of charges related to forming a criminal organization and attempted terrorism on the day of the parliamentary elections in Montenegro on October 16, 2016.

The High Court’s ruling, issued on July 12, 2024, cleared individuals associated with the former political alliance, the Democratic Front, including leaders Milan Knežević and Andrija Mandić, as well as former commander of the Serbian Gendarmerie, Bratislav Dikić, and ten others. They were accused of plotting a violent uprising to seize the Assembly of Montenegro and declare victory for their party during the elections.

The appellate proceedings resumed in late 2025, with a session held on December 23 during which Moštrokol presided over the panel. The case has garnered significant public and media attention due to its implications for Montenegro’s political landscape and the ongoing dialogue regarding democracy and rule of law in the region.

As the SDT prepares to present its arguments, the absence of Moštrokol raises questions about the future handling of this sensitive case. The judicial community and the public alike will be watching closely as the appellate court continues its work in this high-stakes legal environment.