The Alliance for Albanians has reacted to the increase in intercity transport fares, describing the decision as a direct blow to students, workers and families who are facing ever-greater difficulties each month in covering their expenses.
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According to ASH, the fare on the Tetovo–Skopje route has increased from 200 to 250 denars one way, or 25 percent. As a result, a round trip now costs 500 denars. Meanwhile, the price for the Kumanovo–Skopje route has risen from 170 to 200 denars one way.
The opposition party says the increase had been announced and that the government failed to intervene in time, even though it had several measures at its disposal to mitigate its impact. According to the party, it could have used a temporary reduction in excise duties, a cut in VAT on fuel products, transport subsidies or other fiscal instruments.
“Fuel prices rise, an increase in transport costs is announced and citizens raise the alarm, while those in power stand by and wait. Only after the damage becomes real do the explanations and promises that the issue will be reconsidered begin,” ASH said, adding that citizens are now paying the price for this negligence.
ASH described the position toward students as particularly problematic, since the Education Minister has stated that subsidizing their transport is not currently a priority. “What could be a priority for this government if students, workers and citizens in general are not?” the party said.
The statement also mentions Izet Mexhiti, whom ASH says has held senior state positions for more than two decades and should answer what he has done for young people and students. According to the party, he served three terms as mayor of Chairi beginning in 2005, then became a member of parliament, while in 2024 he took office as first deputy prime minister and minister. Today, the statement continues, he is once again mayor of Chairi and one of VLEN’s main leaders.
The party says one fact debunks VLEN’s propaganda: in April 2024, the coalition’s official website promoted the organization of free transport from Germany and Italy for members of the diaspora traveling to North Macedonia to support VLEN in the elections.
“There was free transport for votes, while the student who goes to university every morning receives no subsidy. The worker who sets out early and travels every day to provide for their family faces a ticket that is 25 percent more expensive. This shows the true priorities of those in power,” ASH said in its statement.
The Alliance for Albanians is calling for a public and transparent explanation of the fare increases, their suspension until a full analysis is completed, and concrete measures for students and employees who depend on intercity transport, including ticket subsidies.
“Citizens are not the government’s ATM. Students cannot be used only for campaign photographs, while young people cannot be kept in the country through slogans. They need conditions in which to study, work and live with dignity,” ASH said.
The party added that, after more than two decades in politics, Izet Mexhiti and his associates could no longer ask for more time. “They have had more than enough time. Now is the moment to answer to the citizens,” the Alliance for Albanians concluded.
