Right-Wing Nationalist Party Wins Elections in North Macedonia, Ending Seven Years of Social Democrat Rule

The VMRO-DPMNE, a right-wing nationalist party, has won the parliamentary and presidential elections in North Macedonia. This marks the end of the Social Democrats’ seven-year rule in the country, during which many voters felt they performed poorly, incompetently, and corruptly. The Social Democrats suffered a bitter defeat, losing over half of their voters.

With almost half of the seats in the new parliament, the right-wing opposition is now in a comfortable position to choose their coalition partner. Supporters of the opposition celebrated in the streets of Skopje as VMRO boss Mickoski declared it a historic victory for the Macedonian people. Mickoski campaigned on a confrontational course against neighboring countries if an election victory was achieved.

The VMRO candidate also scored a clear victory in the runoff election for the office of head of state. The incumbent, backed by the Social Democrats, had no chance this time around. Bulgaria has demanded North Macedonia mention its minority in the constitution as a prerequisite for EU accession negotiations. The EU countries have the right to veto any progress in negotiations.

The right-wing victory reflects the disappointment of many with the ruling Social Democrats’ poor administration, nepotism, corruption, and economic decline. The new government faces challenges in maintaining EU negotiations and improving governance. Mickoski’s leadership will be tested as he takes over his role as Prime Minister in North Macedonia.

In summary, after seven years of rule by social democrats who faced criticism from voters over their performance and corruption, a right-wing nationalist party has emerged victorious in North Macedonia’s parliamentary and presidential elections. With almost half of