Skopje, 26 October 2025 (MIA) - VMRO-DPMNE leader Hristijan Mickoski has regretted the statement of Vlen's Brvenica mayor candidate Hakim Ramadani, saying it was a big mistake "primarily for the other candidates of the coalition".

Ramadani was seen in a video posted on social media, together with candidates of opposition DUI, urging for people to vote for ethnic Albanians in those municipalities where the runoff includes a duel with ethnic Macedonians, in order "to defend the homeland and show who is the boss in municipalities dominated by Albanians".

"Imagine what will now happen in Tetovo, Struga, Debar and other municipalities. This is the most selfish move by a politician in the country's recent history, thinking only about himself while disregarding all others in the mayoral runoff," Mickoski told reporters.

He said the issue has been raised with representatives of the international community in recent days.

"They are also in disbelief, to hear someone using that kind of language in the 21st century," noted Mickoski.

Asked if Ramadani's statement would have an influence on the government coalition with Vlen, the VMRO-DPMNE leader said it would impact his position.

"After he loses the elections here in Brvenica, he will be dismissed from his current post (State Inspectorate on Local Self-Government director)," said Mickoski.

He said all those working for the future of the country, regardless of ethnicity, religion or political party have his and the Government's support.

"Those speaking about Macedonia's future are welcome as my interlocutors, but those speaking about divisions, especially along ethnic lines, are not. These people do not mean the Macedonians, the Albanians and all other fellow citizens well. I believe the people of Brvenica will recognize and reject this," said Mickoski and urged residents to vote for their candidate and incumbent Mayor Jovica Ilievski.

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