Press Release

U.S. Embassy Statement on the Recent Election-related Incidents

May 12, 2008

Successful elections are vitally important for Macedonia’s future.  The U.S. Embassy condemns the violent events that marred the opening of the election campaign in Macedonia this weekend.  Violence and intimidation have no part in the democratic process.  We urge Macedonian authorities to investigate these incidents and to prosecute the perpetrators as appropriate.  We call upon all political party leaders to honor the pledges they made by signing the Code of Conduct for Free and Fair Elections, and to demonstrate through constructive action that they are fully committed to ensuring free, fair, and peaceful elections in Macedonia.