On Wednesday, voters in North Macedonia participated in a significant parliamentary election and a presidential runoff, with key issues such as the country's EU membership aspirations, corruption, and the economy taking center stage.
The first round of the presidential election favored Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova, backed by the center-right opposition, over incumbent Stevo Pendarovski, supported by the governing center-left coalition. Siljanovska-Davkova secured 41.2% of the vote compared to Pendarovski's 20.5% in the initial round.
With more than 1,700 candidates competing for 120 seats in the unicameral assembly, the parliamentary election saw a diverse field. The campaign focused on crucial issues like EU integration, rule of law, corruption, poverty alleviation, and economic growth.
Opinion polls indicated a lead for the center-right opposition VMRO-DPMNE party over the coalition 'For A European Future,' led by the Social Democratic Union of Macedonia, in the run-up to the election.
North Macedonia's EU accession process faces hurdles from Bulgaria, which demands constitutional amendments to recognize a Bulgarian minority. The country has been an EU candidate since 2005, with recent negotiations commencing in 2022.
Corruption remains a significant concern, with reports highlighting its prevalence in various sectors. Both major parties have acknowledged the issue, with promises of anti-corruption measures.
Over 2,300 observers monitored the election, with preliminary results expected on Thursday.
