Skopje, 11 February 2025 (MIA) - Just representation must be taken into account but we must agree once and for all what just representation means, said President Gordana Siljanovska Davkova on Tuesday.

The President was quizzed by reporters on the claims of opposition DUI over the omission of ethnic Albanians from leadership positions in the defense sector.

"The country has thus far not implemented just representation but proportional representation, namely the percentage of ethnic communities reflected in institutions. This is proportional, not just. Just representation means skills and competences come first, and then proportional representation. These institutes of affirmative action or positive discrimination are temporary mechanisms that ensure equality when applying for a job. Otherwise, if there is only proportionality, there is a risk of complete partisanship and politicization. In fact, the screening showed this and it is reflected in the annual report - that our institutions are occupied by people who cannot say they possess the skills and competence but are selected by politics and parties. Such a country cannot make progress. We must do everything to keep the best here, instead of them going abroad. That is why the brightest blossom there but wither here," said Siljanovska Davkova.

Photo: MIA