Water Woes and Constitutional Standoff Dominate National Agenda
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North Macedonia is grappling with a severe water crisis in Gostivar, where a water ban remains in effect. The Public Enterprise for Roads accused Gostivar Municipality of failing to pay for water pipe infrastructure, hindering efforts to restore full service. Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski addressed the issue, expecting an announcement soon regarding the water's suitability for technical use, while residents are reportedly considering lawsuits for human rights violations related to the poisoning incident.
Adding to the domestic concerns, Prime Minister Mickoski firmly stated that there would be no constitutional changes under pressure from Bulgaria, emphasizing the non-negotiable nature of national principles. This comes as the country also deals with rising West Nile virus infections and an impending increase in central heating costs for Skopje residents.
Beyond these major issues, other domestic news includes incidents of alleged bribery for exams, a severe injury from a fall from a moving car, and a hand grenade thrown into a Kumanovo yard that fortunately did not detonate. There was also a political development with Murtezi resigning from all party positions within the VLEN coalition, a move co-chairman Izet Mexhiti was reportedly unaware of. The Directorate for Protection of Cultural Heritage denied a permit for metal grates on the Makedonium monument, while the Municipality of Veles initiated a positive step to restore its National Museum's status.