North Macedonia’s final parliamentary session before the launch of the local election campaign descended into heated exchanges on Thursday, as lawmakers clashed over illegal wiretapping allegations, living standards and calls to restore the country’s former name.
The debate followed a unanimous decision by lawmakers to adopt a joint declaration pledging free and democratic municipal elections on October 19. What began as a symbolic show of unity quickly turned into a political showdown exposing deep divisions.
Wiretapping Scandal Sparks Confrontation
Opposition leader Venko Filipche demanded answers from Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski about allegations of illegal surveillance of politicians and journalists between 2019 and 2024. He criticized the National Security Agency (ANB) for denying parliamentarians access to classified documents, calling it a “disrespect of the Constitution and Parliament.”
“Lawmakers hold security clearances and a constitutional right to access such information. This is a matter of urgent public interest that must be fully investigated,” Filipche told parliament.
Mickoski countered that he lacks authority to declassify materials and said he expects prosecutors to act. He downplayed the significance of his own surveillance, arguing it was more serious that members of the previous Social Democrat-led government were also targeted.
The prime minister revealed that institutions have been unable to locate the alleged surveillance materials the Social Democrats cited before losing power.
Political Rivalries on Display
Mickoski also traded barbs with Dimitar Apasiev, leader of the far-left Levica party. Both waved documents – including photographs and bank statements – accusing each other of misleading the public over party finances. Apasiev demanded the prime minister’s resignation on moral grounds.
The opposition Social Democrats pressed for an increase in the minimum wage to 500 euros, a move the government rejected, warning it could harm small and medium-sized businesses.
Separately, Skender Rexhepi of the Alternative party revived the debate over the country’s constitutional name, calling for a return to “Macedonia” instead of “North Macedonia.” He also announced his candidacy for mayor of Skopje under the “European Front” coalition.
Session Adjourned Until After the Vote
Parliament Speaker Afrim Gashi confirmed this was the final plenary session before the elections. Lawmakers are scheduled to resume work after November 2.
The October 19 local polls – in which voters will choose mayors and municipal councilors – are seen as a key test for Mickoski’s right-wing government, amid mounting tensions over corruption, economic pressures and identity politics.