The Macedonian society is deeply touched by the death of the young Martin Neshkoski. No human being, parent, citizen of Republic of Macedonia can remain indifferent toward this event. The Neshkoski family has suffered a great and irreversible loss and every one of us as their fellow citizens share their pain.

I see the decision of the young people, who instigated by this great tragedy engaged and expressed their views, as an honest initiative and sincere intention to contribute to the improvement of democracy. The activists who were staging the protests or who were active on the social networks showed responsibility and seriousness. Nonetheless, I appeal the Internet and social networks not to be used for promoting hate speech. I hope that this type of constructiveness will result in progress and improvement of the functioning of all democratic institutions in the Republic of Macedonia.

I have carefully reviewed the demands and proposals submitted on the occasion of the death of Martin Neskoski. I join the pledges for this case to be solved through the institutions of the system in line with the Constitution and laws and the person or persons responsible for the tragedy to be punished, justice to be satisfied serving as a warning to prevent such tragedies in the future.

I have always endorsed and participated in initiatives for opening debates on how to secure higher standards for democracy and freedom in the Republic of Macedonia. I am also doing this now, especially when such initiatives are launched by young people. Your initiative for opening a debate on the work of police forces and their responsibility within the law and solely in the interest of citizens has my support. It is in our interest to lead this debate in a rational fashion. Macedonia as a democracy and society is mature and open enough to enable all civil initiatives aimed at advancing the system to be articulated through the institutions. I, as President of the Republic of Macedonia, am prepared to be an active participant in this discussion.

Dr. Gjorge Ivanov