{"id":81119,"date":"2017-05-03T08:24:59","date_gmt":"2017-05-03T08:24:59","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/mostafa.openonline.co.uk\/?guid=b093f1ca25ee22812ff4a25948a00ff7"},"modified":"2017-05-03T08:24:59","modified_gmt":"2017-05-03T08:24:59","slug":"press-release-uk-statement-on-political-developments-in-macedonia","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/mostafa.openonline.co.uk\/?p=81119","title":{"rendered":"Press release: UK statement on political developments in Macedonia"},"content":{"rendered":"
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There has been a political crisis in Macedonia since 2015. Early elections took place in December last year. On 1 March 2017, a clear majority of those MPs elected in December asked to form a government. However, President Ivanov refused to offer the mandate so that the majority coalition could form a government. On 27 April a Speaker was elected by the Macedonian Parliament.<\/p>\n

A Foreign Office Spokeswoman said:<\/p>\n

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The UK supports the democratic decision of the majority of Macedonian MPs to elect Talat Xhaferi as Speaker. We look forward to working with him.<\/p>\n

We call on all individuals, institutions and parties to allow an unhindered and non-violent transfer of power from the previous ruling party to the majority coalition elected in December 2016. The sooner a government is formed, the sooner it can get on with implementing urgent reforms to benefit Macedonia\u2019s citizens.<\/p>\n

At a time of heightened tension, all leaders should refrain from inflaming ethnic tensions. Any such behaviour is dangerous and contrary to the interests of Macedonia\u2019s national unity.<\/p>\n

In the wake of the unacceptable violence of 27 April we also call for the State authorities, in particular the police, to be allowed to fulfil their roles without political interference.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Further information<\/h3>\n