WASHINGTON, D.C. - May 29, 2008 - Today, the United Macedonian Diaspora (UMD) urged the government of the Republic of Macedonia to do everything necessary to ensure that the upcoming elections in Macedonia are free, fair, and without incident.  Metodija A. Koloski, UMD’s President stated: “It falls upon Macedonian citizens, not just government officials and political leaders, to constructively participate in Macedonia’s democratic process.  It is through democratic means that there will be equality and justice for all Macedonian citizens, not violence.”

As Macedonia marches towards NATO and EU membership, it is vital that both the people and the government of Macedonia demonstrate political maturity and respect for the rule of law.  Currently, the only real obstacles to Macedonia’s NATO and EU membership have been the Greek government’s anti-Macedonian chauvinism and illegal use of veto powers.  However, any ugly incidents -- such as attacks on candidates or campaign offices -- might create new obstacles for Macedonia on its path toward Euro-Atlantic integration.

Koloski commented:  “For centuries, Macedonians longed for the ability to have a say in the governance of their own land and their own affairs; today, the citizens of Macedonia possess this ability.  We strongly encourage all Macedonian citizens to exercise this hard-won and precious human right – the right to vote.”

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Founded in 2004, United Macedonian Diaspora (UMD) is an international non-governmental organization addressing the interests and needs of Macedonians and Macedonian communities throughout the world.
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