Belgrade's Kalenić Market Renovation Contract Awarded Amidst Controversy

The reconstruction of Belgrade's Kalenić market has been awarded to a company described as a "favorite of the authorities," sparking criticism. Nikola Jovanović, director of the Center for Local Self-Government (CLS), stated that Belgrade has set a new, ignominious record for the most expensive renovation of a city market. The project is valued at 24 million euros. Jovanović further elaborated that the selected company, čistoća, has a history of alleged corruption and has been awarded numerous public tenders despite its questionable performance and financial standing. He pointed out that the company's owner, Petar Matić, has close ties to the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS). Jovanović questioned the transparency and fairness of the procurement process, suggesting that the high cost of the renovation is a result of corrupt practices and a lack of genuine competition. He also highlighted that the renovation plans themselves are problematic, as they involve the privatization of market spaces and the displacement of existing vendors. The CLS director urged the city authorities to reconsider the decision and conduct a thorough investigation into the tender process and the selected contractor.