Shtip, 27 September 2025 (MIA) - Speaking at an event to promote VMRO-DPMNE mayoral candidates held in Shtip on Saturday, the party's leader Hristijan Mickoski said a new election campaign is starting, and it must not be a theatre of empty promises, but the mandate of mayors is an agreement with the citizens.

Mickoski pointed out that expectations are always high, and the people expect a better life, security, justice and prospects.

"But in essence, they expect something even deeper: dignity and humanity. The campaign must not be a theatre of empty promises, it should be a bridge between truth and hope, to show sincere intentions, and not to obscure with illusions. It is a moment of persuasion, but also a moment of mirroring. There you can see both the people and the person who is running, as well as their mutual sincerity. Expectations are always high. The people expect a better life, security, justice and prospects. But in essence, they expect something even deeper: dignity and humanity, not to be deceived, not to be treated as a means, but as an end whose well-being must be worked on responsibly and my attitude in politics has always been honest and with honour towards things," said Mickoski. 

The VMRO-DPMNE leader and Prime Minister also pointed to the commitments undertaken by the Government that are being continuously implemented.

"First, the fight against corruption. There is no progress without honesty. There is no justice without responsibility. Corruption is a tax on the poor – and we must eradicate it. There will either be justice and order, or there will be no state! Either corrupt politicians, mafia members or Macedonia! We will be in the forefront on the side of Macedonia and its citizens! And you will see that! Second, the standard of living of citizens. Our duty is to create conditions for a dignified life, higher wages, a decent life for pensioners, stable prices, support for families. In conditions of serious economic problems, inflation that is difficult to calm down, even in the world, we have a responsibility and obligation to adopt measures and steps that will benefit citizens, and increase and improve their standard of living," Mickoski said. 

According to Mickoski, the Government does not stop here, all reforms in all areas continue with increased dynamics.

"Let's be with the people, but also be guided by their will and their pain, which we must alleviate. Let's be people who know that power is fleeting, but deeds and virtue remain. And, in life, it is very important to make the right choice. Life consists of making choices. Today, we do not seek applause for promises, but trust for the work. Because the real reward is not in applause, but in the life that we will make better. And when the day of decision comes, and you stand with a pen in your hand in front of the ballot, you will know that you carry the answer within yourself. In your heart. In your gaze. On the street. In the change that has already begun," said Mickoski.

He noted that the mayors who ran the municipalities in the past four years, and who come from the ranks of VMRO-DPMNE, had obstructions from the central government at the time.

"In the past four years, of which three years were filled with fierce resistance and hindrance from the central government, together, the mayors of VMRO-DPMNE and the coalition, built and reconstructed streets, boulevards, roads with a total length of over 770 kilometres, and a total value of about EUR 100 million. Almost 47 kilometres of new water pipes have been built, almost 91 kilometres of sewers have been built. Seven indoor markets, 12 water treatment plants have been built or are in the final phase of construction," said Mickoski.

He pointed out that in the area of ​​education, more than 400 schools have been reconstructed and modernized, and photovoltaics have been installed in many schools.

"Free school meals have been provided for children grades 1-5, and free summer holiday trips have been provided for children from socially disadvantaged families in many municipalities. More than 70 kindergartens have been reconstructed and modernized, and several dozen kindergartens have been newly constructed. For this purpose, more than Mden 1 billion have been invested. In addition, 274 sports playgrounds or children's recreational fields have been completed or are in the final phase," Mickoski said. 

Photo: MIA