Events for 35th independence start tomorrow, public still awaits cost details
Despite a May briefing that named international performers, officials say cost figures will be announced only after all contractual details are finalised.
Events marking North Macedonia's 35th independence anniversary are due to begin tomorrow, but authorities have not yet disclosed how much the programme will cost or which public funds will pay for it.
The government presented parts of the programme at a press conference in early May and named several internationally known performers. Since then, however, organisers have not provided a total cost estimate or a breakdown of planned expenditures.
When asked about the line-up, which acts are already confirmed, which are still under negotiation, and the overall sum to be paid for performances, the Government offered the same answer repeatedly: preparations are proceeding in phases and full financial details will be released once all elements are finalised.
"With respect to the concrete organisational, programmatic and financial aspects, the public will be informed timely, fully and transparently, at the moment when all elements are finalised. Considering the sensitivity of contractual processes with some of the artists, production houses and other participants, certain information will be published after their officialisation," the Government said.
Organisers and outside partners
One of the companies named in earlier announcements, Avalon, told reporters that it follows the information and instructions provided by the Government and declined to give further details on contracts or fees.
Public watchdogs say citizens have a right to know how public money is being spent, especially in a period of high state debt and reduced purchasing power. "Regardless that preparations are underway, that the concept is being developed, citizens deserve to know what the estimated value is," said Biljana Ivanovska, former chair of DKSK, on the Top Tema programme.
"We have a lot of experience over the past 35 years with this type of contracts and we have the right to demand an account in advance, not after the train has passed," said Sladjana Taseva, former chair of Transparency International.
The official programme foresees a large concert in Bitola to open the events tomorrow, a series of shows across several towns through August, and a finale in Skopje on 8 September with David Guetta — yet, organisers still have not published the financial plan for the celebrations.
Photo: press material from the event
