Skopje, 8 April 2026 (MIA) - At a session Wednesday, Parliament elected Aco Ristov as the new head of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) with 68 votes in favor and 15 against. 

“Aco Ristov is an electrical engineer with many years of professional and project experience in the fields of energy, hydropower, water supply, water treatment, mining, and infrastructure systems. He is an experienced manager with proven expertise in overseeing complex construction, energy, and industrial projects, including hydroelectric power plants, electrical systems, treatment facilities, pumping systems, and industrial infrastructure. He possesses strong competencies in project management, technical coordination, supervision, and strategic planning,” said Parliament’s Committee on Election and Appointment issues in its proposal to appoint Ristov, adopted on March 17.

During Wednesday’s discussion in Parliament, opposition MPs said ruling party VMRO-DPMNE has put forward a partisan candidate for ERC head, while MPs from the ruling majority said Ristov meets the conditions and deserves to head the ERC due to his experience and knowledge.

Levica MP Amar Mecinovikj said Ristov cannot act as an independent head of the ERC, since, he said, he is a close associate of the Prime Minister, adding that he would file a complaint to the European Energy Community over the appointment.

Former ERC head Marko Bislimovski resigned his position on February 12.

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