Skopje, 7 May 2025 (MIA) – Corruption and organized crime have no place in a country that wants to move forward, Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski told Wednesday's central event celebrating Macedonian Police Day – May 7.

PM Mickoski praised all police officers for their commitment and courage, sending a message that there is no longer a place in the country for cronyism, nepotism and protection from liability.

"There was a time when institutions were used for personal and political interests, not for justice. Messages such as "we'll fix it" and "I'll make a call" were louder than the law. That time is over. Today I want to say publicly and loudly that in this country there is no longer a place for cronyism, nepotism and protection from liability. The law applies to everyone, regardless of whether it is an ordinary citizen, an official or a businessman. The strength of a state is not measured by the privileges of individuals, but by whether justice has reached everyone, both the most powerful and the most marginalized," Mickoski told the ceremony at the Interior Ministry’s Training Centre in Skopje’s Idrizovo. 

The PM stressed that the fight against crime and corruption must be fought with commitment and clean hands.

"Today, we send a strong message that there is no compromise with crime. Corruption and organized crime have no place in a country that wants to move forward. We are determined, as a Government, as institutions, but above all as a society – that this fight must be fought with full commitment, with real partners and with clean hands. They say justice may be slow, but it should never be blind. It is our task to open its eyes – through professional, ethical and incorruptible police. Police that will prosecute crime, regardless of whether it is hidden behind a mask, position or money," said Mickoski. 

He honoured the police officers who demonstrate their courage every day through their work, as well as the police officers who have laid down their lives in the line of duty.

"The courage of our police officers is demonstrated every day, in every intervention and patrol, in every sacrifice made to keep us safe. We are called upon to bow before the memory of those who sealed their work with their lives. Their names are engraved in history, but their deeds live on in every safe day we have. Let us not forget, behind every badge there stands a family waiting, praying and hoping that their loved one will return safe home," Mickoski said.

Minister of Interior Panche Toshkovski also extended greetings to all police officers across the country, underscoring their key role in ensuring public safety. Toshkovski highlighted the complexity of the modern security context and the challenges facing the police.

"This day is dedicated to you, to all police officers across Macedonia, the people who are professionally committed to ensuring the safety of citizens every day," said the Minister, pointing out that being a police officer is not just wearing a uniform, but commitment to protecting the homeland. "The modern security context is complex. We face great challenges and our role today is more responsible than ever," he noted, adding that the Interior Ministry actively cooperates with numerous European and regional partners.

Photo: Government of the Republic of North Macedonia