Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski said that elections could take place “soon,” reopening speculation about early parliamentary polls despite earlier statements that the vote would be held in 2028.
Mickoski criticized the opposition, saying it had chosen to “bow to foreign interests” instead of supporting the government. He added that after the next elections, the party led by Venko Filipce would be “marginalized.”
“The good news is that elections will be held soon, and after those elections, his party will be sidelined,” Mickoski said, adding that he hoped new political figures would emerge “who love the country and will fight for it.”
Filipce responded that it was unclear what type of elections the prime minister was referring to, but assumed they were parliamentary. He argued that early elections were likely due to what he described as a worsening financial situation.
“We are ready for elections whenever they happen and we will put an end to this government, which is criminal, the most corrupt in Europe and anti-people,” Filipce said.
The leader of DUI also said he was prepared for early elections, noting he had called for them from the outset.
“Even if elections are held tomorrow, I am ready,” he said.
Additional reactions came from Social Policy Minister Fatmir Limani, who posted on social media suggesting parliamentary elections would be held soon, amid tensions within the VLEN coalition.
Political friction has intensified after remarks by Bilall Kasami, who said Limani was no longer part of the coalition’s political plans.
VLEN is expected to formally unite into a single political party on May 9, with a leadership structure including Izet Mexhiti and Kasami as co-chairs.
Government sources cited by local media said early elections next spring remain an option, potentially triggered by cabinet reshuffles or economic pressures.
The latest developments signal rising tensions across the political spectrum, with both government and opposition positioning themselves for a possible early vote.