Ombudsman opens Tetovo office during Brvenica mayoral by-election

The Ombudsman announced that a temporary regional office will operate in Tetovo today during the mayoral by-election in the Municipality of Brvenica, providing a place where voters can report any violation of their voting rights.

The office will be open from 7:00 to 19:00 and citizens can file complaints in person or by phone at 044 344-082.

Immediate measures promised

In an official statement the institution said it will take urgent steps to ensure effective action by the authorities involved in the electoral process and by other institutions obliged to protect citizens' guaranteed rights.

The Ombudsman stressed the constitutional character of the right to vote, noting that it is equal, universal and direct and is exercised by secret ballot. The statement additionally underlined that no one should be held liable for exercising this right and that violations of voters' freedom of choice and other infringements of electoral rights may amount to criminal offences.

The move aims to make it easier for voters in Brvenica and the surrounding area to report incidents and for the Ombudsman's office to monitor and respond quickly during voting hours.

Photo: press material from the event