This evening the US Ambassador to Macedonia Jess Bailey announced that that at this stage the necessary conditions for organising credible elections on April 24 are currently not in place.
US ambassador gave a statement in-front of Government, after handing over the letter with the report to the interim Prime Minister, Emil Dimitriev.
Baily said that while some progress had been achieved they not met the necessary conditions for holding credible elections on April 24.
“Although some progress has been made, an agreement has not yet been reached on media reforms. We are also concerned at initial reports of pressure and intimidation of voters and others”, said Baily.
He pointed out that the US, the EU and international partners encourage all political leaders and institutions to remain committed to the Przhino Agreement and including steps taken under the Agreement so far.
“If the elections can not be held on the foreseen date, political parties are expected to work to take the necessary measures to allow holding credibale elections at the earliest possible date, with full respect to the responsibilities and ongoing preparatory work of the State Election Commission”, said Baily.
He added that some of the political parties mentioned June 5 as a possible option for elections to take place. The ambassador noted that serious effort is required from all stakeholders to ensure a credible election process, in which all citizens can participate freely.
“Political leaders have the responsibility to take the necessary steps to put their country back onto the Euro-Atlantic path, by implementing the political agreement and Urgent Reform Priorities, in interest of the country’s citizens.. We will continue to follow and measure progress very closely”, said Baily.
Towards the end of his statement he explained, however, that the date for the elections will be determined by Parliament.
