LOCAL PRESS

 

Dacic with UN Under-Secretary for Peace Operations and UNMIK Head (Serbian Foreign Ministry)

 

Serbian Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic met today with the UN Under-Secretary for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix and the Special Representative of the UN Secretary General and UNMIK Head Caroline Ziadeh. The interlocutors discussed the contribution of our country to world peace through the participation of representatives of Serbia in peace operations and the improvement of cooperation with the UN. They discussed the importance of continuing the engagement of the UNMIK Mission on all issues of importance for the consistent implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1244, as well as the current security and political situation in Kosovo and Metohija, especially in the context of recent incidents that further increase tensions. The topic of discussion was the perspective of dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina. Dacic pointed out that Serbia is committed to dialogue as the only way to solve current problems, but that the essence is in respecting what was agreed upon. In this context, he emphasized that it is necessary to implement the assumed obligations, primarily the establishment of the Community of Serb Municipalities, even though ten years have passed since the signing of the Brussels agreement. Lacroix praised the participation of representatives of Serbia in missions under the mandate of the UN and, above all, the quality and professionalism of their engagement. Dacic confirmed Serbia’s readiness to continue to be a significant participant in UN peace operations, thereby contributing to the building of peace and security in the world. The interlocutors expressed the expectation that the good cooperation will continue in the future.

 

Vucic: Elections to be held in September at the latest (Tanjug/RTS/RTV/Politika)

 

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on Sunday announced elections for "September at the latest". "You want elections? I will inform the people on 26 May, we are going to elections. That means the elections will be held in September at the latest," Vucic told reporters in Smederevo in response to opposition demands for his resignation. He noted that no one would be able to choose what elections would be held but that everything else could be discussed.

 

Vucevic: Kurti plans to physically occupy 4 northern municipalities by 28 May, situation is terribly tense (TV Pink)

 

Serbian Defense Minister Milos Vucevic said on Saturday that 28 May is the "deadline" when Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti "plans to physically take over" the four municipalities in the north of Kosovo with a majority Serb population. "You know what that means, he takes over the municipalities with two percent of voter support, that means he will tear down all the Serb symbols, that he will go into a complete confrontation with the huge, absolute majority of the population living in those municipalities," Vucevic told TV Pink. Vucevic assessed that the situation in Kosovo and Metohija is "horribly tense", and that many are "using the two tragedies that happened in Belgrade and Mladenovac in order to increase pressure on Serbia" and reach their goals, i.e. Kosovo as an independent state. "Kurti, while we are playing the blame game with each other here, is preparing actions to physically take over these four municipalities in the north of Kosovo and Metohija and is not shaken much by our tragic events, but sees it as momentum that gives him a certain advantage, because here we are again disuniting, disintegrating, someone is to introduce instability again," Vucevic said.

 

Gratitude for continued support of Cyprus to Serbia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity (Tanjug/RTV)

 

Serbian Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic received today Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus Demetrios Theophylactou on a farewell visit, who is finishing his mandate in the Republic of Serbia soon. Dacic expressed his gratitude to Ambassador Theophylactou for his personal contribution to the intensification of political dialogue and cooperation between Serbia and Cyprus, considering that during his mandate significant contacts of high-ranking officials of the two countries were made, and the overall cooperation was raised to an even higher level. The Serbian Foreign Minister also expressed his gratitude for the continued support of the Republic of Cyprus to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Serbia, i.e. for the consistent and principled position on non-recognition of the unilaterally declared independence of so-called Kosovo, as well as the hope that Cyprus will maintain that position, both bilaterally and in international organisations. The two officials agreed that the relations between the two countries are substantive, of high-quality and constantly on the rise and confirmed readiness for the further strengthening of the mutual dialogue, exchange of visits at all levels and intensive connection of the two countries through the improvement of cooperation in a large number of areas, especially in the economic field. Dacic wished the Ambassador of Cyprus much success on a professional and personal level, saying that he can always count on the friendship of Serbia and the Serbian people. Ambassador Theophylactou assessed that the special quality of the relations between Serbia and Cyprus is given by the fact that Serbs and Cypriots have always been together and supported each other both in good and bad times. Theophylactou said that he is taking very good memories from Serbia, expressing his gratitude for the exceptional understanding and cooperation of the state leadership, representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other state institutions of Serbia, according to a statement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

 

Dacic expressed regret over Israel's decision to recognise unilaterally declared independence of so-called Kosovo (Tanjug)

 

Serbian Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic received Friday Ambassador of the State of Israel to Serbia Yahel Vilan. At the beginning of the talks, the Ambassador of Israel extended his condolences over the recent tragic events in Belgrade and expressed his sympathy and solidarity with the families of the victims. The interlocutors exchanged opinions on the state of bilateral relations and the possibilities for their improvement. Dacic expressed regret over Israel's decision to recognise the unilaterally declared independence of so-called Kosovo, which had a negative impact on our bilateral relations, but he pointed out that despite this, common interests should be sought, primarily for the benefit of the people of the two countries, which throughout history often shared a tragic fate, especially during the Second World War. Interest in the continuation of economic cooperation, which has been on the rise in previous years, with an increase in Israeli investments, was expressed during the talks. Israel is one of the most important investors in our country, especially in the field of transport and real estate construction, said Dacic. He expressed the hope that the recent opening of the flight between Belgrade and Tel-Aviv will have a positive effect on both economic and tourist exchange between the two countries. The interlocutors exchanged opinions on the situation in Israel too. Dacic pointed out that Serbia supports the establishment of permanent peace and stability in the Middle East, and that he hopes that in the future a way will be found to reach an agreement that will contribute to a better life for all people in that region, according to a statement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

 

Vucic defends Brnabic: She was only telling the truth about the protests (Nova)

 

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said that there were several thousand people at the protests in Belgrade and that he is always ready to listen to requests, the portal Nova.rs reported. He said that meeting one of the demands of the protesters, to cancel the numerous reality shows in the country is something that can be discussed. „I didn’t think we would talk about this today because the whole world is talking about it: from the Guardian to the Times, everyone is talking about the unique and fantastic actions that Serbia has taken”, he said, praising the reaction of Serbia’s authorities following the recent shootings in the country which shocked the region. “I have an obligation to respect every gathering, whether 5, 10 or more thousands of people gather, as was the case at the last two protests. I do not differentiate between citizens, my obligation is to pay attention to their requests and to see what we can do. As for the demand to reduce violence, we are taking measures. These are very serious measures… As for the political demands, I don’t think anyone knows what those are and I don’t think it’s possible to discuss those on the street”, he said. “You want to talk about reality shows, fine. But if the reality show is cancelled, then it will be cancelled everywhere,” Vucic said. Vucic also commented on claims that photos of the protests were photoshopped to increase the number of people present. This is what Prime Minister Ana Brnabic implied in a post on social media, which was the subject of a lot of criticism. “That evening, the prime minister, the finance minister and I were drinking tea, it doesn’t even matter. We talked about everything in a Belgrade cafe and at that moment we can see from that picture that there are so many people. We have precise software to determine how many people were at Gazella or in front of the government, there are no more secrets. We have established that it was false, a forgery,” he said about the reported number of people at the protest. He argued that there are attempts to portray a higher number of protesters. Vucic said that the protest was mostly peaceful. “People were marching peacefully, except for a couple of donkeys that were hitting cars, but they were overall peaceful,” he said. Vucic said that he does not understand why the photo posted by Brnabic became such a big issue. According to Vucic, the photo, which many interpreted as an attempt to mock the protesters, was only showing “the truth”. “What is the problem with the truth being told? Why is she guilty of telling those in the opposition that they were caught in lies and deception? Why are you campaigning against her? You see what the campaign turned into,” he said. He said that the officials who the protesters want to see removed from their posts will not be fired, specifically, the Interior Minister Bratislav Gasic. “But we can compromise, replace the entire government and then go to the elections. But for that, you have to wait until 26 May. I’m telling you, you won’t achieve anything through force, and as far as democracy is concerned, I’m ready to meet you halfway. No problem, I’m informing the people on 26 May, we’re going to the elections in September,” he said.

 

Dacic on protest: Not a word about the victims, just threats against Vucic (Tanjug)

 

Serbian Foreign Minister and Socialist Party of Serbia leader Ivica Dacic said that the Friday opposition gathering was an example of typical scandalous abuse of a big tragedy for petty partisan and political purposes. “Not a word about the victims and the suffering of the families, just treats against President Aleksandar Vucic and his family, and demands for a change of government in the streets, without elections, because they know they cannot win the people’s support in elections,” Dacic told Tanjug. He said this was an insult to all victims of violence and harassment of people by blocking international roads. “This is why Serbia needs a message of peace, political stability and national unity which all of Serbia will be able to see on 26 May at a large national rally. Violence cannot be used to fight violence. That is why only a strong and stable Serbia with a serious and responsible leadership can ensure the future of our country. Serbia must not stop,” said Dacic.

 

Serbia wishes to be part of European family (Tanjug)

 

Serbian Minister of Finance Sinisa Mali said Friday night during the talks with International Special Envoy for the Implementation of EU Sanctions David O'Sullivan that Serbia does not plan to be a base for circumvention of sanctions imposed by the EU. At the meeting, where opinions were exchanged on the current economic and geopolitical situation in Europe, Mali reiterated that our country will make sure that it is not used to circumvent EU sanctions. We stand for peace and stability, and it is also our wish that the conflict in Ukraine ends as soon as possible, because, like many other European countries, we too suffer great negative consequences because of it, he pointed out. He added that Serbia wants to be part of the European family and that it is our duty to respect European rules and standards. We naturally aspire to join the EU, we have signed and ratified the Stabilisation and Association Agreement with it. The EU is our key trade partner with 60 percent of the total trade exchange and we are obliged to comply with its standards and rules, which we are doing, he underlined. The Customs Administration already has excellent cooperation with the EU, with which it exchanges information almost on a daily basis, Mali said.

 

REGIONAL PRESS

 

Sattler: In week that we celebrate Europe Day we are marking big step that B&H has taken in direction of joining European family; Reform process must take place faster (O Kanal)

 

O Kanal carried an interview with EU Special Representative (EUSR) and Head of the EU Delegation (EUD) to Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) Johann Sattler, who elaborated on activities during marking of the Europe Day. The interview was recorded during the Ambassador’s visit to Travnik and the Memorial Museum – Birth House of writer and Nobel literature laureate Ivo Andric on Friday.  Asked about the marking of Europe Day in B&H, Sattler stated: “For us, this week when we celebrate Europe Day is a very special occasion. We are celebrating a project that started 73 years ago. We are marking a big step that B&H has taken in the direction of joining the European family.” Commenting on the importance of B&H’s integration into the EU in the context of the EU candidate status, Sattler explained that this is not something that is acquired automatically, and noted that this is an important step, but it is connected with geopolitics, with the change of the European image, with Russia's aggression against Ukraine and the EU decision that it is necessary to take more account of this region, that more investments must be made. “It is a kind of recognition, we have to be closer, that we want to be closer in facing a dangerous enemy, but it does not happen automatically. A reform process is needed, which must take place faster”, the EUSR stressed. The EUSR emphasized that the EU expects the politicians of this country to really learn those lessons, to adopt the recommendations and to work faster. “What we need to see is more focus in working on key reforms, especially the fight against corruption and organized crime, better judiciary, which is really important for rebuilding the economy and creating jobs. These are important things and it must come from the politicians of this country. We now have new authorities and I call on them to use this chance and to sit down together, to seek compromises, not to continue this game in which there are no winners”, he added. Speaking about the activities within marking of Europe Day in B&H, Sattler elaborated: “In Sarajevo, we opened the Europe House in Ferhadija Street. I always use this opportunity, when we celebrate Europe Day, to take the ambassadors out of Sarajevo, because this is one big country and there are many different cities, regions and cultures too, so it is important for us as diplomats not only to be in the capital, in our offices, but to go outside, to get to know people. We used this opportunity to go to the Central Bosnian Canton (CBC), we started in Jajce, where we had meetings with young people from the school. They took us around the city, showed us the main attractions of that beautiful city of Jajce, which really deserves to be on the UNESCO list, and then we played a little sport and saw the beauty of the country, walking along the path on which the ‘ciro’ train used to operate. That's the narrow-gauge railway that was financed by the EU. Then we came here and attended a wonderful concert by the students of the Music School. Those young people made it an unforgettable night. We are here in Travnik, in the Museum of Ivo Andric, one of the greatest sons of this city. We will also have meetings with the business community, with civil society, with the brave women of Kruscica, who are fighting for the preservation of the environment. We always use this to achieve a broad interaction with the citizens of this country.” In terms of his visit to Jajce and the Museum of the Anti-Fascist Council of the People’s Liberation of Yugoslavia (AVNOJ), Sattler stressed the importance of anti-fascist battle given that the whole idea of the EU is to move away from fascist ideologies. Speaking about B&H’s European integration Sattler underlined that there are reasons to be optimistic. “Thigs are happening faster and it is an important step that B&H is recognized as an official EU candidate, but it is important that we get more engagement regarding improvement of living conditions, improvement of society. Something I always say when I meet with students and pupils is: This is your country, it is beautiful, you have so many talented people and natural beauty. You must engage, you must find something to stand for and contribute to making this country move forward faster. You must demand more from your politicians and go out to the streets if you are not satisfied with what is happening, for example if you are not satisfied with the state of corruption in the country. Democracy is much more than that, it is active engagement of citizens”, said Sattler.

 

Aggeler: Restoring of defamation into RS Criminal Code presents step back and Mission points out insufficient transparency in legislation process (Nezavisne)

 

The daily carried interview with Head of OSCE Mission to B&H Brian Aggeler who was first asked to convey a message to journalists and public on occasion of recently marked World Press Freedom Day. Aggeler underlined that media freedom is a main pillar of democracy and noted that they are aware of the challenges and threats that journalists in B&H, most notably in Republika Srpska (RS), are facing. He noted that proposed changes aimed to restore defamation as criminal offense, concerning threats, attacks and other violent acts, create environment with many challenges when it comes to media freedoms. Ambassador noted that attacks on journalists do not constitute only as breach of fundamental rights of the journalists, but also undermine free flow of information and it is of outmost importance for authorities to secure adequate institutional measures, based on these reports and create safe environment for work of all media. “One of the ways to solve this is through regular and constructive cooperation and coordination of different actors, for instance through establishing of system of contact persons within police bodies and judiciary, tasked for issue of security of journalists”, said Aggeler. He mentioned the example of Sarajevo Canton, which has a prosecutor tasked for protection of journalists and they are considering models to introduce this in other prosecutor’s offices and different models were discussed during the recently held conference, organized in Banja Luka by OSCE Mission, EU Delegation and High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council of B&H. Asked about the draft law, which criminalizes defamation, Aggeler noted that they understand increasing concern over harmful effects of disinformation and hate speech and they are ready to support institutions in legitimate efforts to deal with these issues. Stressing that all activities in this sector has to be proportional and necessary, Ambassador noted that standing against disinformation must not be used as excuse for unjustified limiting of freedom of expression and opinion. “On the contrary, protection of these freedoms is crucial for preventing of disinformation as well as increase of transparency and securing of access to information. We firmly oppose this initiative, and we deem that restoring of defamation as a criminal offense into the RS Criminal Code presents a step back”, said Aggeler. Ambassador noted that OSCE strongly advocates decriminalization of defamation and insult in member states, trying to remove frightening consequences that only a mere possibility of criminal sanction can provoke for freedom of media. “It is necessary to underline that B&H was a first country of Southeast Europe, which decriminalize defamation 20 years ago. Mission once again points out the insufficient transparency in the legislation process before the document found itself on the agenda of the RSNA and reminds that every change, which impacts fundamental freedoms of citizens, need to be object of wide and open discussion of all interested actors and citizens”, said Aggeler.

 

State property issue: International officials may offer solution, this spark big reactions in B&H (N1)

 

N1 reported that the state property issue seems to be the most important issue in B&H, reminding that the two entities have totally different opinions about this topic. N1 argued that this is why it is more and more likely that instead of domestic, international officials may offer a solution which is causing numerous reactions each time that someone mentions this option. The reporter reminded that an expert team – formed by the Office of the High Representative with the support of the Peace Implementation Council – is working behind closed doors to offer a solution for this issue. The work group was formed with the task to collect a set of expert opinions and information and thus, offer help to the B&H parliament in solving of the state property issue. According to some expectations, the recommendations may be forwarded to the B&H parliament at the end of the summer or at the beginning of the autumn. The reporter noted that the public can only speculate about their proposals, while Head of the EU Delegation Johann Sattler told N1 that experts come from Germany, Italy and Turkey. Sattler announced a discussion already next week, about the state property adding that experts can only draft proposals, but the B&H Parliament is the one that should discuss the proposals in the end. The reporter noted that bearing in mind the rhetoric coming from RS, a discussion in the B&H Parliament will not happen. Namely, Banja Luka categorically rejects any talks about the state property in institutions of B&H, arguing that everything was solved in the Dayton with the famous equation 51 percent to the Federation of B&H (FB&H) and 49 percent to the RS. N1 reported about threats in Sarajevo to the diplomat due to the very idea on a discussion on the property, while the initiative was declared unsuccessful. RS President Milorad Dodik said: “They speak the same thing. I will beat Sattler up, you will see. I told him I will beat him up.” Deputy speaker of the B&H House of Representatives Nebojsa Radmanovic said that he has no right to discuss or impose this issue, adding that they will not accept or pay attention to that. Radmanovic underlined that no one will register the property in that way because everything was registered in line with the law to those to whom the property belongs and that is the entity. Commenting on this issue, representative of the Transparency International in B&H Ivana Korajlic assessed that in this case, the CC of B&H and its decisions should be primarily taken into account, while relying on any external factors to get involved in the process may only create additional problems. Asked to comment on this issue, political analyst Tanja Topic told N1 that in this situation when domestic politicians cannot and do not want to reach an agreement, they leave room for the OHR to react. Speaking about this issue, political analyst Velizar Antic argued that if the High Representative Christian Schmidt reaches a decision that is contrary to the opinion in the RS, then B&H will face a big problem. According to Antic, if Schmidt reaches a decision that is contrary to the interpretation of Bosniak politicians, then he will face big resistance in Sarajevo. N1 concluded by saying that both outcomes will create a new crisis with uncertain outcome, and it is hard to predict a solution that will satisfy everyone.

 

Disputes on Open Balkans in focus of public again (BHT1)

 

Disputes on accession of B&H to the Open Balkans initiative have been in focus of the public again. Politics in B&H is divided when it comes to this initiative. While the RS authorities insist on immediate joining this association - that was referred to as Little Schengen - in order to involve in cross-border cooperation, some in the FB&H deem that this initiative represents imposing of hegemony of Serbia and influence from the east. Representatives of B&H Council of Ministers (CoM) underline that interest of citizens of B&H should have priority.

B&H Minister of Foreign Affairs Elmedin Konakovic stated recently that in his response to invitation of Serbian Prime Minister to B&H to join the Open Balkans, he had stated that they should implement signed agreements, before discussing joining abovementioned initiative. RS President Milorad Dodik said that term Open Balkans has been used for this initiative, because the Balkan has been closed for long time. Economists insists on importance of economic cooperation in the region. While some point out advantages of the Open Balkans, including simplified procedures at borders, recognition of certificates related to goods, recognition of diplomas and single labor market, other deem that it is necessary to analyze economic aspect of this initiative. “It would simplify procedures in this part of the Western Balkans, in same way as the EU has been doing. I even think this is one of incentives of the EU to get us used to complete cooperation in economic processes”, stressed economist Zeljko Ricka.

 

Croatia marks anniversary of Bleiburg tragedy (HRT)

 

The 78th anniversary of the Bleiburg tragedy and the Croatian people's Way of the Cross was commemorated at Zagreb's Mirogoj cemetery on Saturday, with Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic and Parliament Speaker Gordan Jandrokovic laying wreaths in honour of the victims. The delegations accompanying Plenkovic and Jandrokovic included Veterans Affairs Minister Tomo Medved and Interior Minister Davor Bozinovic. The commemoration was organised by the Honorary Bleiburg Platoon, the Croatian Bishops Conference, and held under the auspices of the Croatian parliament, with the Croatian National Assembly of Bosnia and Herzegovina as co-sponsor. Speaking to the press, Jandrokovic said today was a commemoration for a tragic event in Croatian history, a crime committed in retaliation by the victorious communist forces. The crime, he noted, was kept silent for the duration of the Yugoslav communist regime. "Those who ordered it and those who executed it kept quiet because they knew the atrocities were contrary to both international law and all conventions. But those who lost their loved ones also kept quiet, those who survived the Way of the Cross, for fear of a new retaliation by the communist system," Jandrokovic said. "The Bleiburg tragedy showed the true character of communist Yugoslavia; a totalitarian and undemocratic regime which also had elements of being a criminal state. The Bleiburg tragedy and the Way of the Cross confirms that. We must take an honest look at our history and condemn all totalitarian regimes that existed in this region," said Jandrokovic. Future generations must know that freedom, democracy and peace don't come automatically, that there are always those ready to commit crimes, to take away other people's freedom and peace, so it's necessary to strengthen the institutions and, in particular, instill awareness among young people that it is always worth it to fight for freedom and peace, he added. Plenkovic underlined the importance of nurturing a culture of remembrance "which will talk respectfully and truthfully about the victims, about the crimes of which, unfortunately, there were many in our history, so that young generations know what happened in the key moments in Croatian history." "The end of World War Two brought victory over Nazism, freedom and peace to the European continent, but unfortunately the crimes that happened against civilians and defeated soldiers who were slaughtered without trial and dumped in unmarked graves, represent one of the more painful memories, and a major tragedy of the Croatian people in the 20th century," said the prime minister. That's why this commemoration, and others during the year, particularly those for key moments from the Homeland War, "are extremely important for the cohesion of our people, for a better understanding, for a tolerant society, and for nurturing the culture of remembrance as one of the key European values," he added. Tens of thousands of Croatian civilians and soldiers of the defeated Independent State of Croatia surrendered to Allied forces at Bleiburg, Austria in May 1945, but were handed over by British troops to Tito-led Yugoslav Partizan forces.

 

Democratic Front dissolves after 11 years (CdM)

 

After 11 years, the Democratic Front (DF) dissolves as a political alliance set up back in 2012. The Movement for Changes (PzP) won’t be a part of that bloc anymore, while the leader of that party, Nebojsa Medojevic, said that after their exit, the Front can’t use that name anymore. As the CdM portal announced, this bloc collapsed over the fight for positions on the electoral list. According to sources, the leader of the People’s Democratic Party (DNP), Milan Knezevic, got angry because there was a request that the PzP MPs, Branko Radulovic and Branka Bosnjak, must have their seats in parliament secured, plus one more for them. In addition, the PzP believed that they deserved more seats than the DNP as they “sacrificed” a lot over the past period. Knezevic didn’t like the idea and he refused it. Also, the DNP considered that one of the seats should be given to someone younger, and they were mentioning Nikola Bajcetic, but he should be one of the two names offered to this political party. However, that’s not all. Younger members of NOVA proposed that they should run in the forthcoming elections independently, that there shouldn’t be a coalition with Milan Knezevic’s party so that they may see the political strength of the DNP, which is totally unknown to the public. They also didn’t like the idea that Predrag Bulatovic should be on the electoral list of the DNP, noting that some changes must be introduced in that sense as well.

 

Mandic, Medojevic, Knezevic confirm DF split: From now on we’ll act independently (CdM)

 

Leaders of the Democratic Front (DF), Andrija Mandic, Milan Knezevic and Nebojsa Medojevic, officially announced earlier today that their bloc dissolved after 11 years. They also noted that from now on, they’d act independently. “Following the overthrow of the DPS regime, we’ll continue our political fight separately. The DF decided that its parties should take their own road striving towards the same goal,” the President of the New Serb Democracy, Andrija Mandic, told at the news conference. The Leader of the Movement for Changes (PzP), Nebojsa Medojevic, said they had the same goal – the Serbian - Montenegrin reconciliation. “The DF historical mission is completed. Serbs and Montenegrins are reconciled, doing good to everyone,” he pointed out. “If it hadn’t been for the DF, there wouldn’t be changes in Montenegro. Everyone was attacking us, but it was an amazing journey with my friends. The DF is a big historical fact and project. Mission is completed. We ousted Djukanovic, we ousted the DPS,” Mr Medojevic said. The Leader of the People’s Democratic Party (DNP), Milan Knezevic, noted that they had a goal – to fight against the DPS and Djukanovic – and they succeeded in it back in 2020. According to him, the party split is a logical consequence of a big historical journey.

 

Medojevic: DF ceases to exist, we started to bother each other (CdM/Sputnik)

 

The leader of the Movement for Changes (PzP), Nebojsa Medojevic, has said that his party’s going to run in the June election independently. He also adds that the Democratic Front ceases to exist. “Milan Knezevic, who’s going to be the list leader, demanded more seats for his party. I couldn’t agree with it so the solution was to dissolve the Democratic Front. The Movement for Changes’s going to run in the election on 11 June independently. We won’t set up the coalition with anyone,” Medojevic has told Sputnik.

 

Rasko Konjevic withdraws from politics (CdM)

 

Leader of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Rasko Konjevic, steps away as their president and a politician, the Pobjeda and Vijesti dailies announce. Allegedly, Konjevic made such decision for private reasons. Media claim he decided to withdraw a month ago when he informed his closest collaborators that, after 15 years, he wished to withdraw from politics soon after the extraordinary parliamentary elections scheduled for 11 June. It was when they agreed that he wouldn’t be the SDP electoral list leader or their MP in case they decide to run in the elections along with the DPS, SD and DUA.

 

SDP to run in June elections independently (CdM)

 

The Main Board of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has decided that this party’s going to run in the parliamentary election scheduled for 11 June independently, the CdM portal has learned. At the session of the Main Board, 29 members voted for an independent running in the election, while 28 were against. Earlier, the DPS and SD decided to join their forces and run in the election as a coalition. It will most likely include the Liberal Party and Democratic Union of Albanians as well.

 

No postponement: Parties still calculating how and with whom they’ll run in elections (RTCG)

 

The Bosniak Party has decided to run in the 11 June elections independently, thereby letting part of the parliamentary majority know that as far as they are concerned, there is no postponing the elections. This is how all parties announce that they will submit their lists by 16 May, and for now it is known that URA and Democrats, who do not want cooperation with SNP, will participate in the elections together. The independent Movement Europe Now will participate in the elections. The public will learn about the details of the other parties in the following days. “We are working on the formation of a civil bloc, the backbone will be URA and Democrats, that bloc will be open to all civil forces that want to contribute to further democratization and reforms that are necessary for Montenegro,” says Mileta Radovanic from the URA General Assembly. Momcilo Lekovic of Demokrats says that they have collected signatures of support, and that the electoral list will be submitted in accordance with the deadlines set by the State Audit Institution. SNP leader Vladimir Jokovic would prefer to see that party on the list alone in the elections, but it is not yet known whether that will be the case. Europe Now says that they are working on the preparation of the list. “We are working on the preparation of the list, the leader Milojko Spajic will definitely be the list holder, we will definitely submit the list within the legal deadline, maybe on 15 or 16 May, and I believe that it will be the best list that has ever appeared in some elections”, Vasilije Carapic points out. t is not yet known how the opposition will perform in the elections, and the public is speculating that DPS, SDP, SD and the Liberal Party could be on the same list. DF has not made a statement about the way it will perform in the elections either. Ahead of the June parliamentary elections, the only certain coalition was agreed upon between Democratic Montenegro and URA, the RTCG portal was told unofficially. It is not impossible for it to be a wider coalition, which would also include other political entities, which will be discussed in the following days. The deadline for submission of electoral lists expires on 16 May at midnight.

 

Abazovic: I don’t expect anything from Constitutional Court, very indecisive people, let’s organize elections, even though it’s insane (CdM)

 

Outgoing PM Dritan Abazovic does not expect anything from the Constitutional Court, which at today’s session will discuss initiatives to initiate the procedure for evaluating the constitutionality of amendments to the Law on the President. “I would not like to comment, I realistically do not expect anything from the Constitutional Court. For political reasons, they are waiting for time to pass, very indecisive people, leaving the interpretation to the public space… We would have none of this if we had the reaction of the Constitutional Court. Some would say the reaction is appropriate, some would not, but everyone would agree with it and move on, so I don’t expect anything. As far as I’m concerned, if it’s easier for them not to meet, let them be in this situation in the next period”, says Abazovic, answering the questions of journalists in Villa Gorica. He repeats that the decision to call elections for 11 June is unconstitutional.

 

PM: Ruling coalition is stable (MIA)

 

The government coalition is stable and has 65 lawmakers; some political parties' ideological views differ from others' but as part of the coalition they share the same vision and are working to achieve the same goal, SDSM leader and Prime Minister Dimitar Kovachevski said ahead of a SDSM public debate held Sunday. "DOM (Democratic Renewal of Macedonia) issued a statement regarding the electoral model moving to a single constituency," PM Kovachevski said. "SDSM was the first party that included that model in its platform," he continued. "We have not stepped back from that. This is why we have formed a committee to make revisions to the electoral law – firstly with the aim of inserting OSCE and ODIHR remarks but later also in relation to the electoral model." Regarding recent demands by the Dostoinstvo (Dignity) party, Kovachevski said he had exceptional respect for their leader and members. "We will also discuss their proposed laws and their compatibility with others. We can always find a solution together," Kovachevski said. Citizens do not need blockades in parliament but modern highways, SDSM leader and Prime Minister Dimitar Kovachevski said ahead of his party's first public debate in a series titled "Results that Make a Difference" dedicated to energy security and green transition. He told the press that he would not allow the proposed laws related to the Bechtel and Enka construction project to be blocked in Parliament, which, he said, had kept beeing blocked for two years. "Given that Corridor 8 was put on the map of Trans-European corridors for the first time — until now only Corridor 10 was there — those laws will pass for the sake of faster and more efficient highway construction, for which geotechnical tests have already started," Kovachevski said. "I am sure that lawmakers will do it through a democratic procedure," Kovachevski added, pointing out that the business community was supportive of the highway construction project. Asked about his expectations of President Stevo Pendarovski's opinion of the laws, he said Pendarovski was a law professor and had experienced legal advisors as well. "He will review the proposed laws and give us his final word in the end," Kovachevski said. Regarding the use of the EU flag to fast track the procedure in Parliament, the prime minister said the government was in daily communication with the EU Delegation and the US Embassy in Skopje.

 

Escobar: Not asking opposition to support PM but North Macedonia's Euro-Atlantic path (MIA/VoA)

 

We are not asking the opposition to support the prime minister. We are asking the opposition to support North Macedonia's Euro-Atlantic path, US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State overseeing policy towards the countries of the Western Balkans Gabriel Escobar said in a Voice of America interview published Sunday. Expressing hope that parties across the political spectrum would vote for the constitutional changes required so North Macedonia could continue the negotiations with the EU, Escobar told VoA that the country needed to move forward as quickly as possible. The US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State also said he would like the opposition to show their commitment to the country's Euro-Atlantic integration. "The credibility of the enlargement process depends on North Macedonia," he said, pointing out that the country had met all conditions to move forward in the process. "And I think that everyone, both in the European Union and in North Macedonia's political structures, should do all they can to make this happen," Escobar said. Commenting on corruption allegations regarding the Corridors 8 and 10d construction project, he said the US had an ongoing dialogue with North Macedonia on ways of working together to reduce corruption in the region. "Corruption is one of the biggest challenges for the entire region, not only for North Macedonia. Secretary [of State Antony] Blinken and Prime Minister Dimitar Kovachevski discussed it at length during their meeting," Escobar said. Highlighting the good partnership between the US and North Macedonia, Escobar welcomed the country's reforms related to the fight against corruption. He also said the US had a strong interest in making sure North Macedonia and other regional countries did their part to reduce corruption and enforce the rule of law.

 

Administrative elections, 144 candidates running for mayors and 23,763 for members of municipal councils (Radio Tirana)

 

In the local elections of 14 May, a total of 23,907 candidates for mayors and members of municipal councils are racing. Specifically, 144 candidates are registered in the mayoral race, while another 23,763 candidates compete for municipal councils. There are 5213 polling stations throughout the country. The Regulatory Commission in the CEC will use recording cameras and screens for the registration and display of ballots at the Vote Counting Station, the use of the real-time video transmission system for monitoring the counting of votes. Meanwhile, a mission of 324 international observers of the OSCE/ODIHR will observe the entire local elections process in Albania. Addressing the recommendations from the OSCE/ODIHR, the resolution of the Assembly of Albania and recommendations from the Ombudsman, facilities have been created for the participation in voting of persons with different abilities. On Sunday, Albanian citizens were heading to the ballot boxes in the country's 61 municipalities to elect their new leader and councillors for the next four years. 5213 polling stations opened at 07:00 and remained open until 19:00. From the data generated by the General Directorate of Civil Status, in the Ministry of the Interior, 3,650,550 Albanian citizens have the right to vote. A total of 122,545 voters voted for the first time after turning 18 by 14 May. They had a right to vote even if their means of identification have expired. Over half of the voters are men, leaving unchanged the dominance of this gender in Albanian society. The votes cast in the ballot boxes will be counted at the counting tables in 92 Election Administration Zone Commission (EAZC). In Sunday's local elections, 40 political parties and 143 candidates for mayor participate, of which only 15 are women. In total, the number of candidates for mayor and member of municipal councils is 23,907, of which 11,843 are women and 12,064 are men. The May 14th elections are the 9th held in Albania since the fall of the communist system. The elections are also being observed by international partners. OSCE and CEC have trained about 7 thousand employees for the elections.