Skopje, 23 January 2026 (MIA) - Interior Minister Panche Toshkovski commented on today’s adoption of the Law on Misdemeanors via a Facebook post, noting that it enables the full implementation of the Safe City system from February 1, highlighting that the decision directly safeguards citizens’ lives and security.

“By adopting the Law on Misdemeanors today, Parliament has confirmed that political courage and responsibility allow for decisions that directly safeguard citizens’ lives. I extend my sincere thanks to all MPs who supported the law, showing that road safety, the protection of human life, and the public interest take precedence over political agendas. Through this decision, the Parliament sends a clear signal that the state is finally taking systemic measures against traffic chaos and unnecessary human losses,” Toshkovski said.

He also thanked citizens, emphasizing that their responsible behavior during the test period is crucial for the success of the system.

“Special thanks to the citizens. During the test period, they showed that they know, can, and want to be part of the solution. By changing their behavior on the roads, following the rules, and raising awareness, citizens directly contributed to greater safety and a reduction in traffic accidents, injuries, and fatalities. The Safe City system is not a tool for punishment, but a system for saving lives, and it was the citizens who first recognized this,” Toshkovski said.

Toshkovski sharply criticized SDSM and DUI for today’s vote, saying it showed once again that party calculations come before citizens’ safety.

“Today’s vote confirmed that both parties remain stuck in their political swamp, prioritizing party interests over human lives. Their coalition, never publicly admitted, resurfaced through a joint vote against a system that is saving lives. The decision was about citizens’ safety, yet they chose to stay trapped in the same patterns, holding the country back. They could have been part of the solution, but they chose to be part of the problem, and will face political and moral responsibility before the Macedonian people,” he said.

Parliament on Friday approved amendemtns to the Law on Misdemeanors with 81 votes for, 19 against, and none abstaining, following a fast-track procedure. This clears the way for the Safe City system, which will automatically record and sanction traffic violations from February 1, focusing on prevention, road safety, and saving lives.

Photo: MIA