[REVISION HISTORY]

Macedonia water crisis, data centers and political disputes

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2026-09-19 10:54 UTC → 2026-09-19 14:22 UTC · added ~~removed~~

In late July 2026, severe water contamination was reported in seven Macedonian towns, including Gostivar and Prilep, with white foam observed in the Lepenec and Vardar rivers. The crisis sparked intense political disputes between the ruling VMRO-DPMNE and the opposition Social Democratic Union of Macedonia (SDSM). By mid-August, the conflict expanded to include rumors of E. coli contamination in Skopje, which authorities dismissed as a “hybrid attack” intended to incite social unrest. Simultaneously, the political debate shifted toward the government’s data center projects. While Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski argued these facilities are essential for digital infrastructure and economic growth, the SDSM and the DOM party raised concerns regarding water and energy security, potential electricity price increases, and noise pollution. By late August, Mickoski projected GDP growth of 3.5% to 4% despite these debates. In early September, corruption allegations surfaced within the Ministry of Digital Transformation, with SDSM member Jon Frčkoski alleging a conflict of interest regarding contracts awarded to ‘Noma Sistem Solutions’. VMRO-DPMNE dismissed these as “baseless insinuations.” Friction intensified as the SDSM accused the government of driving the country toward a record public debt of nearly 12 billion euros. By September ~~3, VMRO-DPMNE accused SDSM leader Venko Filipche of using “political spin” to obstruct data center investments. On September~~ 14, Mickoski reaffirmed the commitment to a national data center, describing the global technological shift as ~~“irreversible” and dismissing rumors that the EU might withdraw funding.~~ “irreversible.” On September 17, Minister of Digital Transformation Stefan Andonovski announced that a national artificial intelligence strategy, including ethical use legislation, is expected by year-end. The government plans to build the National Data Center on state land near ~~Bunardzik and intends~~ Bunardzik, intending to ~~construct a~~ use solar power ~~plant~~ to supply 30% to 40% of the facility’s ~~electricity needs.~~ electricity. SDSM representative Keti Šterjova criticized this direction, alleging the administration is ‘selling out’ national resources and raised concerns regarding environmental impacts and antimony mining projects.

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