Skopje, 28 October 2025 (MIA) - After the second round of the local elections, I expect the coalition led by VMRO-DPMNE to have 59 mayors, which will mark the highest number in the history of democratic Macedonia. And if we add to that the likely victory of Orce Gjorgjievski for the City of Skopje, who leads 3:1 after the first round compared to his opponent, then we reach a total of 60 mayors from the coalition led by VMRO-DPMNE - including the capital, said VMRO-DPMNE leader Hristijan Mickoski at late Tuesday’s rally in Kichevo held as part of the campaign for the second round of local elections on November 2.

Reviewing the results of the first round of local elections, Mickoski pointed out that VMRO-DPMNE and its coalition secured 33 mayors. “In the meantime, with the withdrawal of the two opposing candidates in Makedonski Brod and Mogila, I can round that number up to 35 mayors,” said Mickoski.

Referring to the coalition’s success in 58 municipalities where it secured a majority of council seats, Mickoski said the result showed that unity and citizen support can overcome any stronger opponent.

“When we are united as one, we are stronger and can defeat even much greater rivals,” he said.

“That’s why it’s very important on Sunday, November 2, for us to unite here in Kichevo, regardless of our differences, whether they are ethnic, religious, or political. It’s crucial that we stand as one, united around the values we share and the civilization we represent. Because I am convinced that Aleksandar’s opponent does not share our values or our vision of civilization. Everyone who picks up the pen and stands behind the ballot box should listen to their reason and their heart, and look deep into their soul, there they will see the number 9. Circle number 9, vote for Aleksandar,” Mickoski urged, calling for a massive turnout in support of VMRO-DPMNE’s candidate for mayor of Kichevo, Aleksandar Jovanovski.

He said that when choosing between Aleksandar and his opponent, people should recall the values that define Aleksandar and those that define his rival.

“Forget what someone tells you happened four, five, or six decades ago. Trust those who tell you what will happen four or five decades from now. Forget those romanticized stories about an invented past that never actually happened. Believe in the future that all of us, Macedonians, Albanians, Turks, Roma, Serbs, Vlachs, Bosniaks, and others will build together. That is the future of Macedonia,” Mickoski sent a unifying message and call to all ethnic communities.

Photo/video: VMRO-DPMNE