VREDI: Artan’s close circle turns against DUI

VREDI says tensions inside North Macedonia's DUI are rising after a public statement accusing Ali Ahmeti of manipulating internal rivalries and using an associate named Artan to undermine Bujar Osmani.

"The eternal Ahmeti is once again playing the old double game. On the one hand, supposedly he is saving Artan from detention, and on the other hand through Artan he is setting Bujar up. For some time there have been whispers that Bujar Osmani behind closed doors orders that Ali must step aside so that DUI can become a competitive opposition again. And Bujar, of course, waits in a low crouch to rush to the seat in Mala Rechitsa," VREDI said in a statement.

The ruling party's camp responded sharply, arguing that Ahmeti has reopened an old tactic: publicly suggesting he will withdraw while portraying himself as constrained by aides and circumstances. According to those close to the party leadership, the manoeuvre is meant to deepen divisions between Artan's circle and supporters of Osmani.

Public signals and potential fallout

VREDI also warned that Artan's loyal backers have begun sending clear public messages that they feel abandoned. Those close to Artan reportedly complain that they were praised as "boss", "brother" and "king" one day and are ignored the next.

That shift matters politically and legally: VREDI argues that what Artan — described by critics as DUI's "black box" — may tell prosecutors could determine the fate of the party's unreformed leadership. The organisation says the party faces serious internal choices depending on how the legal process unfolds.

For now the confrontation remains largely political rhetoric, but VREDI's statement underscores how fragile the balance inside DUI has become as figures jostle for position and influence ahead of whatever comes next.

Photo: press material from the event