Skopje, 2 November 2025 (MIA) – DUI deputy leader and spokesperson Arber Ademi expressed gratitude at a press conference Sunday to all citizens who exercised their democratic right to vote in a responsible and dignified manner.

After polls closed nationwide in the runoff at the country’s local elections, Ademi said the elections were a test of the country’s political and moral character.

“These elections were more than a local race. They were a test of the political and moral character of the country. We successfully faced a dishonest and unlawful campaign that tainted the process and undermined the equality of the electoral process. We witnessed mass vote-buying, election asphalt, overnight paving, abuse of public resources and a brutal involvement of the state apparatus in favor of the ruling coalition. Yet, despite all these abuses, the citizens showed they can recognize this and did not allow these dark methods to distort the outcome in the first round. That is why we are convinced they will not distort it now either, in the runoff. Our trust lies in the citizens, in the strength of the free vote and the dignity of the person who cannot be bought for rivers of cement, hastily paved roads, or temporary contracts,” Ademi said.

Ademi called on all members of the election commission, observers, and relevant institutions to uphold the free will of the citizens and the integrity of the electoral process with honesty, professionalism, and responsibility.

“Every vote is sacred, and any interference is an interference in the country’s future. The [DUI-led] NAI coalition remains firmly committed to the path of change, to civic dignity, and to building a society where power is earned through trust, not pressure. Our path is clear – the path of democracy, equality, and European integration. We will defend that path with determination, calm, and dignity,” Ademi said.

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