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Mladic Row, Financial Probe Emerge; Pensions to Increase

North Macedonia is grappling with a fresh political controversy as the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has publicly demanded that the government disassociate itself from high-ranking officials accused of glorifying Ratko Mladic, a figure convicted of genocide. This comes amidst a new financial police investigation into alleged suspicious capital intended for a television purchase, with official institutions emphasizing their commitment to protecting public interest and discouraging speculation.

In other domestic developments, there's positive news for retirees as pensions are slated to increase by 3 to 3.5%, with the exact calculations expected next week and implementation in the October payment. Infrastructure efforts are also progressing, with the Ministry of Culture reporting solid advancements in the renovation of the Universal Hall. However, concerns persist regarding public health and safety, as the investigation into the Gostivar water poisoning incident, affecting thousands, has not yet been expanded. Additionally, the low representation of Albanians in the Police Academy, starting September 1st, has drawn attention, with the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, Astrit…

Meanwhile, public transport in Skopje is set to implement a new schedule from September 1st, impacting commuter services. The country is also experiencing its first European heatwave in centuries, which has unfortunately contributed to numerous deaths this summer.

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Officials Face Demands Amid Mladic Controversy, Police Academy Disparity

The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has strongly condemned any glorification of Ratko Mladic, demanding that the government publicly distance itself from a minister and agency director allegedly involved. Concurrently, concerns have been raised regarding the notably low representation of Albanians, at just 3.5%, among students entering the Police Academy from September 1st, with Astrit Iseni, the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, suggesting a lack of interest.

Financial Police Probe Suspected Capital for TV Purchase

The financial police are actively investigating alleged suspicious capital linked to a potential television purchase. Official institutions are reportedly ensuring professional and legal actions to safeguard public interest, while cautioning against speculation and misinformation.

Pensions Set to Rise by 3-3.5%

Pensions in North Macedonia are slated for an increase of 3 to 3.5%, with the precise calculation to be finalized next week. This adjustment will be included in the September pension payment, which will be disbursed in October, as confirmed by Minister Gjoko Velkovski.

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