VMRO-DPMNE Accuses Zaev of Setting Red Pepper Prices

After three days of protests by farmers in Strumica over the low purchase price of 25 denars for red peppers, the ruling VMRO-DPMNE responded to criticism from SDSM by claiming that the price is being set by former Prime Minister Zoran Zaev’s family business.

“It is hypocritical for SDSM to engage in political confrontation and point-scoring over the purchase of peppers. Farmers facing problems selling their produce know very well that one of the largest buyers is Mama’s Ajvar, owned by Zoran Zaev,” VMRO-DPMNE said.

The party also raised suspicions that the low purchase prices are being maintained knowingly and deliberately for political purposes so that SDSM can benefit, while Zoran Zaev, together with Venko Filipče, enjoys a million-dollar yacht in the Aegean Sea.

“If SDS once again submits a request concerning the purchase of peppers, it should address it to the largest buyer, Mama’s Ajvar, and Zoran Zaev. What remains unclear is where Zoran Zaev sets the prices from: Porto Carras or Santorini?” VMRO-DPMNE said in its response.

Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister Borče Serafimovski is expected to speak to the media today outside the regional unit’s offices in Strumica regarding the purchase of Kurtovska Kapija peppers.