During yesterday’s referendum, the people rejected the Prespa Agreement. By non-voting, the people clearly made its point against any imposed and damaging solutions without previously reaching a consensus. The boycott is the voice of those that are underestimated and the unheard, said the president of the state, Gjorge Ivanov in an address to the nation
-The message of the people was sent to those that must hear it. The reality is that the referendum failed. Do not attempt to change this reality. Do not underestimate the sovereign will of the Macedonian people. A 36.9% turnout is not the will of the people, 63.1% that didn’t come out to vote is the people’s will, said Ivanov.
He sent a message to those that interfere in Macedonia’s internal affairs and take sides without any principles.
“I tell them to respect international conventions for diplomatic relations. We cannot allow those with a democratic deficit to impose solutions that are contrary to the sovereign will of the Macedonian nation – said Ivanov and also noted that the referendum is no opinion poll and that the decision of the citizens was binding and that the Parliament has to respect that.
According to him, there is no doubt that the place of the Republic of Macedonia is in the EU and NATO, but, we should join the organization with our human dignity, without intimidation, pressure and double standards.
-In almost most of the decisive moments in the history of Macedonia, the nation has made wise decisions. It is up to us to respect that decision. This has to be a lesson for all political parties to watch what and to whom they are making promises. And as a citizen, I expect that the ruling majority will take responsibility for the unsuccessful referendum. We all meet with defeats in our lives. Some more and some with less. The man’s greatness lies in recognizing and admitting defeat – Ivanov said and also noted that yesterday Macedonia has remained undefeated.
