The Democratic Union for Integration has suspended the membership of the mayor of Struga, Ramiz Merko, who was placed on the American blacklist. DUI also called for an investigation into the claims of American officials for high level corruption of Merko, who has been leading the Albanian city in North Macedonia for four terms.
“United States is our biggest strategic partner and we respect their positions not only in DUI, but we consider them as good intentions. That’s how it has always been. I often say that every success of the state bears the stamp of the USA, DUI have clear positions regarding the rule of justice, the fight against corruption, the way in which the holders of public functions work, and such positions have been transformed into formal decisions in DUI.
DUI has brought the following decisions: DUI immediately request to start a comprehensive investigation for Ramiz Merko for all claims and information arising from American Department of State’s decision, DUI called on all institutions to start investigations for all political parties, from the presidents to others, because this is the only way to fight corruption”, said Bujar Osmani, DUI’s spokesperson.
The American ambassador in Skopje warned of the completion of the black list with other names of corrupt officials and assured that there is strong evidence for the corruption of the senior DUI official.
“The US Secretary of State defines individuals based on certain categories because it is required by US law. If he is presented with evidence of corruption and harmful activities, then he is obliged to put these individuals on the list. Often this initiative makes the difference and sends a message that we treat corruption seriously and give a voice to citizens who fight corruption in their country”, said Angela Aggeler, US ambassador.
For the mayor of Struga Municipality, Ramiz Merko, there are at least six files under preliminary investigation at the Prosecutor’s Office, which have been dragging on for years.
Meanwhile, the Albanian and Macedonian opposition have demanded the dismissal of Merko from the position of the mayor of Struga.
