The big "MO"

The first round of presidential elections in Macedonia is now over and, judging by comments from observers, discussions with friends, and a reading of the media landscape, it appears that not only did VMRO-DPMNE win big, but Macedonians are encouraged and excited up by the results.  This gives the party, and those who support them, the big “MO” as in “momentum.”

The voters for Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova said we need change, we need a real leader, and we need someone who will speak for Macedonians, protecting their interests.  She beat the current president, Stevo Pendarovski, two to one.

We all know that the power of the presidency in Macedonia is limited.  Because of this, the person occupying the position has a unique opportunity to use the position to encourage the people.  While Steveo talked about the “European orientation” of Macedonia all the time, Gordana talked about something closer to the minds – and hearts – of most Macedonians – that of pride in Macedonia, pride in being Macedonian, the need to recapture a little bit of courage and hope, and the desire among Macedonians to simply be recognized for who they are – Macedonians who are European.

Which is partly why Stevo’s campaign faltered: Macedonians know they are “European,” and they also know that the process of joining the European Union is fundamentally rigged against Macedonians for being Macedonians, which is why some of these other issues matter more in the minds of Macedonians – pride in one’s identity, language, history, and much more.  Macedonians know – for a fact – that yes, life is hard and difficult, but they’ll manage – with or without the European Union.  But to lose one’s identity?  To lose one’s history? To lose one’s culture and language?  That is something Macedonians won’t give up, even if the politicians and some unelected bureaucrats – aided and abetted by US and EU politicians and unelected bureaucrats – demand.

There is a very good chance now for Gordana to win the presidency in the second round.  And not only that, but for VMRO-DPMNE to win even more seats in parliament because Macedonians are excited and have the big MO.

Here’s another reason: the government of DUI/SDSM, like Stevo, talk all the time about the “European orientation” of Macedonia.  Again, Macedonians know they are European, but they also know the system of EU membership is rigged against being Macedonian.  But the thing that DUI/SDSM didn’t talk about – and won’t talk about – is the rampant crime and corruption facing Macedonians, which they themselves – DUI/SDSM – are responsible for.  They talk about the “European orientation” of Macedonia as if it is a cure-all for the many problems facing Macedonians, which they have created.  They talk about the “European orientation” of Macedonia as if they form the next government, they’ll make Macedonia an EU member, and Macedonians will enter the sunny uplands of prosperity and peace.  Except that Macedonians know this cannot be true. 

Macedonians are no fools.  They know that, first, Macedonia must be cleaned up internally and that the rampant crime and corruption of DUI/SDSM must be dealt with.  Macedonians also know that there are other ways of dealing with the childish demands of Bulgaria and that no one in DUI/SDSM has ever bothered to think through these alternatives because, as DUI/SDSM are fond of saying “there is no alternative” meaning, “shut up and do what you are told.” Finally, Macedonians know that, in order for everyone in Macedonia to succeed – regardless of class or ethnicity – internal reforms must be made in the public sector so that the focus is on basic things like merit and ability, nothing else.

These are some of the reasons why VMRO-DPMNE – and others opposed to DUI/SDSM – have the opportunity to win and win big on May 8.

A positive change is in the springtime air of Macedonia and Macedonians are ready to embrace it – the only thing left to do is vote on May 8.  And on May 8, you can vote for this vague, somewhat hazy idea of “European orientation” knowing that it is a convoluted path with no guarantees while also knowing that Macedonia already is European.

 Or you can vote for Macedonia.  The choice is yours.