Mickoski in Pelince: Ilinden "a pledge and a character"

Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski addressed citizens in Pelince on 2 August, marking Ilinden — the national holiday and Day of the Republic — and framed the date as a defining moral and historical legacy for the country.

“Ilinden is not just a date; it is a pledge, but also a character. Ilinden is the strongest proof that there are peoples who can be occupied, can be attacked, can be betrayed, can be underestimated, but can never be conquered,” Mickoski said in his remarks delivered at the ceremony in Pelince.

Appeal to unity and self-determination

During the ceremony the prime minister emphasized that Macedonia was not created by outsiders and that the Macedonian people together with all communities won their statehood themselves. He used the anniversary to call for civic dignity and to remind participants of sacrifices made during the struggle for national rights.

Mickoski’s speech linked the historic memory of Ilinden with contemporary politics, urging citizens to preserve the independence and values that the holiday commemorates. He also addressed the broader significance of resistance against oppression as part of the nation’s character.

The gathering in Pelince brings together officials, veterans and citizens who mark the holiday each year with commemorations, speeches and wreath-laying at local monuments. The event underlined both remembrance and a political message about national resilience.

Photo: press material from the event