Macedonian Deputy Jamalov defends record crime‑fighting results, rejects interpellation

Aleksandar Jamalov, a deputy for the VMRO‑DPMNE party, told a parliamentary session that the Ministry of Interior has achieved notable progress in fighting crime and corruption. He cited a reduction in total crime, an overall efficiency rating of 67% for the Public Safety Bureau, and the dismantling of more than 30 organised criminal groups. Jamalov also highlighted an increase in the number of identified perpetrators, which he said demonstrates effective police response and case clearance.

Regarding corruption, Jamalov noted that six organised criminal groups were neutralised, 146 individuals and 18 legal entities were charged, and corruption‑related cases rose by over 45%. He pointed out a rise of about 500 recorded offences (up 76%) alongside a 160% increase in reported perpetrators, arguing that no one is “above the law”. On this basis, he claimed that the recent parliamentary interpellation against the ministry is unfounded and driven by political motives rather than factual performance.

Jamalov concluded that the interpellation should only serve as a tool for accountability when results are lacking, not when statistical indicators show improvement in public safety, crime reduction, and anti‑corruption efforts.