Skopje, 23 August 2023 (MIA) – There are two ways in which the constitutional amendments can be adopted: VMRO-DPMNE as a political party can decide to provide its support under certain conditions that we discussed two months ago at the leaders’ meeting, and the second way is if some of the MPs decide to vote, as was the case five years ago. I don’t see a third way, maybe it exists, but these are the two options, said Deputy Prime Minister in charge of European affairs, Bojan Marichikj at a press conference Wednesday.

“We are working on two levels, I think that it isn’t impossible, on the contrary I think it’s possible. I think we have enough time and space to reach a solution,” said Marichikj.

The Deputy PM does not think that elections could change anything. On the contrary, he said, “they can only use this question, and make it a question that dominates the campaign and then act as an excuse that VMRO-DPMNE can’t vote for the constitutional amendments because during the campaign they promised not to vote under Bulgarian dictate. And then we will enter a delusion that a better deal is possible and wait ten more years,” said Marichikj, adding that the adoption of the amendments should precede elections.

Marichikj said the ruling majority has 72-73 votes in favor of the constitutional amendments, stressing that they are working towards the necessary majority. 

“The continuation of the session will be scheduled when the conditions for it are met. In the meantime we are working, and will be working, on creating the conditions for a successful vote in Parliament. When the session is scheduled, it will be an indicator that we are close to the necessary majority,” said Marichikj.

Photo: MIA