North Macedonia political tensions rise over independence video and Novo Selo incident

North Macedonia is experiencing intense political friction between the ruling VMRO-DPMNE and the opposition SDSM. One major dispute centers on a video released by Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the country's independence. SDSM leader Venko Filipce criticized the video, claiming it served as a promotion for SDSM's state policies by highlighting figures like Kiro Gligorov while omitting NATO accession and EU negotiations. VMRO-DPMNE responded by accusing Filipce of politicizing a national celebration and failing to recognize the consensus-based nature of the country's founding figures.

Separately, political tensions have escalated following an incident in Novo Selo. VMRO-DPMNE has accused SDSM of harboring criminal elements, specifically targeting Hristijan Efthimov—the grandson of former PM Zoran Zaev—and his associate. The ruling party claims these individuals, whom they describe as convicted violent offenders and drug traffickers, are being defended by SDSM as victims. SDSM has largely remained silent on these specific allegations.

Additionally, debates continue regarding economic statistics. SDSM has criticized the government's use of economic data, arguing that while official statistics may show stability, citizens are struggling with high inflation and rising costs for essential goods like food and fuel.