Skopje, 9 August 2025 (MIA) - Parliament Speaker Afrim Gashi scheduled Saturday the local elections for October 19, in line with Article 12, Paragraph 4 of the Electoral Code.

The first round of voting for mayors and council members in 80 municipalities and the City of Skopje will take place on October 19, whereas the mayoral runoff is slated for November 2.

"Today, I officially signed the decision on scheduling the coming local elections for October 19. I have forwarded the decision to the authorities that are charged with organizing and administering the elections, and I expect a fair and democratic process," says Gashi in a statement.

He adds that the Parliament will continue its regular operations but without holding plenary sessions during the election campaign, which starts 20 days prior to Election Day, in order to avoid abuse of the Parliament podium for electoral purposes.

"Elections are not merely a simple technical process but the core of our democracy. They represent a real opportunity for citizens to elect leaders who demonstrate responsibility, vision and commitment to the public interest. Therefore, October 19 is an important day to strengthen democracy and the citizens' well-being, and build a better future for all," says Gashi.

Considering his responsibility of guaranteeing the integrity and impartiality of institutions, he urges all stakeholders in the elections to demonstrate political culture.

"I call on all political forces, candidates and other entities to demonstrate a high degree of political culture, avoid any form of pressure, divisive speech and attempts to promote partisan interests by abusing institutions and public resources. This is a process focused on the citizens, their real needs and challenges, and the specific solutions that each candidate should offer," says Gashi.

He expects the process will be a testimony of the country's democratic maturity, where rules are respected, dignity prevails and the people's free will is reflected.

"These elections should demonstrate our European values and standards, and our equivocal commitment to integration. Let me wish all candidates and political parties success, and let these local elections be a contest in which ideas and visions for a better future are in the focus of discussions," underlines Speaker Gashi.

Photo: Parliament