In a significant political development, Stevo Pendarovski, the President of North Macedonia, has announced his intention to run for a second term, championing a “civic candidacy”. The announcement came ahead of the expected formal endorsement by the ruling Social Democratic Union of Macedonia (SDSM) on Sunday.
Pendarovski, addressing the press, revealed that he has received widespread support from the public, including notable figures from academia, culture, and those who personally know him, as well as many who do not. This broad base of backing underscores the appeal of his candidacy across diverse sections of society.
With the Social Democratic Union poised to officially confirm their support this coming Sunday, 3 March, Pendarovski is also anticipating endorsements from a consortium of political parties allied with the SDSM. These parties have already hinted at their support, and Pendarovski expects them to contribute suggestions for his electoral programme.
Highlighting his corruption-free first term, devoid of strategic missteps, nepotism, or conflicts of interest, Pendarovski outlined the core reasons for seeking re-election. He pointed to his track record of maintaining internal stability and cohesion through his policies on inter-ethnic relations as a fundamental pillar of his presidency.
Pendarovski took pride in his independence from any political or economic power centers within the country, emphasizing his role in steering North Macedonia into NATO membership during his tenure. Looking ahead, he aspires to lead the country into the European Union in his second term, building on the foundations laid in his first.
The President called upon the citizens to support his candidacy with their signatures at regional units of the State Election Commission (SEC) starting Sunday, marking the commencement of a campaign that promises to focus on continuity, stability, and the aspiration of EU membership for North Macedonia.