Stevo Pendarovski is the joint presidential candidate supported by 31 parties led by SDSM and the ruling coalition. PM Zoran Zaev described on Friday the decision was historic, adding that “Macedonians, Serbs, Turks, Vlachs, Romani, Bosniaks and everyone else” had once again united. According to him, 31 political parties have shown national interests are above party ones. “All of us back Stevo Pendarovski. An above-party, European, citizens, friend and president of all and for all citizens of the Republic of North Macedonia” the PM added. Amdi Bajram and LDP are among those supporting Pendarovski. “I’m leaving the presidential race,” the former stated. As it was explained on Friday, for the decision to be final, it will need to be verified at SDSM’s Congress. Commenting on the decision, VMRO-DPMNE leader Hristijan Mickoski said the following day that Pendarovski represented “a figure of Zaevism”, adding that citizens would show they don’t support Pendarovski. In response to his comments, SDSM said VMRO-DPMNE is afraid of the strong support for Pendarovski “from 30 parties from all ethnic communities, from citizens and from progressive forces.” VMRO-DPMNE’s presidential candidate, Gordana SIljanovska Davkova, however, considers that she will win the presidential elections and that her victory will represent introduction to early parliamentary elections. Also on Saturday, Pendarovski said he was honoured to be supported by representatives of all ethnic communities, by 31 political parties, but also by many citizens that weren’t members of political parties at all. After SDSM’s Congress on Sunday, Zaev said Pendarovski had officially become the presidential candidate. Over 700 delegates voted in favour of him. Pendarovski stated that winning was the only option in the presidential race. Also on Sunday, DUI’s Central Council decided to support Pendarovski in the presidential race. Also, a decision was made for the party’s Election HQ to be headed by Vice President Izet Mexhiti.
Pendarovski paid a visit to Mala Recica, where he delivered an address before the Council’s members.