Skopje, 17 March 2025 (MIA) - SDSM leader Venko Filipche urged Monday for comprehensive, transparent and objective investigation into the cause for the Kochani fatal fire, so that citizens' trust in state institutions is restored.

"Today, we are a wounded society, trust in institutions is shattered. If we want to restore this trust, there must be a comprehensive, transparent and objective investigation. No one should be spared, incumbent or former officials. This is not an issue of politics but one of truth and justice. The tragedy is too enormous to allow even a grain of doubt. If there is even the slightest indication that someone is protected, it will be a blow for the society as a whole. Therefore, I urge the law enforcement agencies to provide daily briefings in order to prevent any speculation. All citizens must demonstrate responsibility," Filipche told a press conference.

According to him, now is not a time for political bickering but a moment to show humanity.

"I will not allow for politicization of the process and we will not allow anyone to be spared. The opposition is closely monitoring the process and we'll support all initiatives that lead to a resolution and identification of the causes," said Filipche.

He also called on the security services to be vigilant regarding the risks of "spillover of crises from our neighborhood".

"Our multicultural, multiethnic society does not need this. Tragedies can destroy but also reinforce a nation. It is up to us how we come out of this - as a country that learned something and brought justice or a society that let this be forgotten," said Filipche.

He extended condolences to the victims' families and all those who lost their loved ones in the tragedy.

"As a doctor, I have been in permanent communication with my colleagues in Skopje. Let me assure those affected that all patients are well taken care of and in the hands of professionals," noted Filipche.

Photo/Video: SDSM