Commission Refrains from Comments on Zaev’s Announced Resignation

The European Commission has refrained from comment on PM Zoran Zaev’s announced resignation. The Commission briefly said on Tuesday the country should continue the EU reforms, without more details. As far as the election process itself is concerned, the Commission considers that on the basis of the ODIHR’s Statement, the elections were competitive, while fundamental freedoms were respected. The election administration received praise for addressing “procedural shortcomings noted during the first round”. “However, the negative rhetoric and allegations that there were pressures on voters and candidates continued to affect the elections,” Commission Spokesperson Ana Pisonero said. Asked whether the EU felt any responsibility for the election results and resignation of the PM due to the blocked integrations, the Commission didn’t give an answer.