Washington, DC - The United States is deeply concerned by the announcement by Macedonian President Ivanov to pardon persons subject to investigation in connection with the wiretapping scandal. If implemented, this decision will protect corrupt officials and deny justice to the people of Macedonia. It will also further undermine Macedonian rule of law, the integrity of its judicial institutions, and the credibility of its leaders’ commitment to the fundamental values of NATO and the European Union.

As a friend of Macedonia, the United States strongly urges President Ivanov to reconsider his decision, and to let the Special Prosecutor’s Office—established as part of the Przino Agreement—investigate serious allegations of government wrongdoing, and to allow the courts to do their jobs. We also encourage the government and parties to continue working on reforms that will strengthen democratic institutions and return Macedonia to a path to credible elections and Euro-Atlantic integration.