Kruševo museums face scrutiny over management and heritage preservation

Political parties in North Macedonia, including LDP and Levica, are raising concerns regarding the management and state of historical museums in Kruševo. The controversy follows the decision to rent the ‘Makedonijum’ monument for a music video shoot for approximately 500 euros, which led to the resignation of Miha Odžaklieski, the director of the National Institution Historical Museum – Kruševo.

Following the resignation, Daniela Stoilovska, an archivist associated with ZNAM, is reportedly being considered for the role of acting director. Critics have questioned the qualifications for this leadership position, noting that the original job advertisement for the archivist role required only secondary education. There are also unverified allegations regarding the authenticity of her academic credentials.

Furthermore, the physical state of Kruševo’s cultural heritage has been described as dire. Reports indicate that the Museum of the Ilinden Uprising and the Kruševo Republic is closed to visitors, the Museum of the National Liberation War is inaccessible to the public, and the Learnica operates only by prior appointment. Political groups are calling on the Ministry of Culture and Tourism to clarify the status of these sites and the criteria used for new appointments.