CIVIL conducted comprehensive long-term monitoring of the first round of the local elections held on 19 October and, two hours after the closing of polling stations, presented its preliminary assessment of Election Day.

Election Day began peacefully and on time, with limited technical delays and individual issues involving fingerprint devices at numerous polling locations across the country. After 3 p.m., a notable intensification of party activities was observed, accompanied by a rise in reports of organized voter transportation, pressure and intimidation, and isolated suspicions of vote-buying.

According to CIVIL’s preliminary assessment, Election Day overall proceeded calmly and regularly, and voters were able to freely express their will.

However, the day was also marked by a series of shortcomings and irregularities — many of which have been recurring patterns across several previous electoral processes.

Key Findings from the Monitoring

Delays and Technical Problems

CIVIL recorded delays in opening polling stations and malfunctions of fingerprint devices in multiple municipalities. At least five municipalities experienced late openings, while technical problems with fingerprint verification were reported across most of the country, including in Bitola, Kavadarci, Kičevo, Šuto Orizari, Aerodrom, Saraj, Prilep, Tetovo, Čair, Butel, Kisela Voda, Centar, and others.

Accessibility of Polling Stations

CIVIL strongly criticized the failure of the election administration to ensure full accessibility of polling stations. It remains unclear why some polling places are located on upper floors of buildings, despite available ground-floor premises suitable for the same purpose.

Violation of the Electoral Silence

Violations of electoral silence were so extensive that they gave the impression the legal ban on campaign activities no longer applied. Across social media, online portals, and physical spaces, party officials, leaders, candidates, and activists continued campaign activities well into the legally mandated silence period, which began at midnight on Friday.

Pressure on Voters

Beyond campaign-related posts, direct voter pressure was also documented. CIVIL’s team intercepted a message reportedly sent to “those waiting for employment,” demanding they express support for specific party candidates. Organized voter transportation and other pressure tactics were especially visible after 3 p.m. in nearly all major municipalities across the country.

Vote-Buying

CIVIL recorded at least one case indicating serious suspicion of vote-buying in the municipality of Gazi Baba. The organization will investigate the case further and include findings in its final report. The Ministry of Interior detained two individuals in Prilep on suspicion of electoral bribery. CIVIL also received citizen reports of vote-buying from several locations but could not independently verify all claims.

Obstruction of Observers and Media

CIVIL strongly protested the obstruction of its accredited observers in several cases, including in Skopje, Kičevo, Shtip and Tetovo. While most election boards carried out their duties responsibly, these incidents point to a longstanding pattern of unpreparedness or deliberate obstruction of civic observers. CIVIL also noted interference with the work of several media crews.

Voter Register

The quality of the Voter Register was again called into question after multiple citizen reports across the country indicated that deceased persons remained listed as active voters. CIVIL verified seven such cases during Election Day.

Assessment of the Integrity of the Electoral Process (as of 7 p.m.)

CIVIL’s findings indicate that, despite the generally stable course of Election Day, clientelistic practices, politicization of the election administration, and impunity for irregularities remain systemic challenges to electoral integrity.

At the national level, voting took place without systemic interruptions, though localized irregularities and technical issues — including instances of vote-buying — were recorded.

Overall, institutions operated within their legal competences, though it remains evident that critical recurring deficiencies require serious and long-term institutional solutions.

Before the end of Election Day, CIVIL issued a reminder and educational notice to election boards to strictly follow the official guidelines on ballot validity (“A ballot is considered valid if the voter’s will can be clearly and unequivocally determined”), reflecting past experiences where inconsistent interpretation of ballot markings led to disputes and irregularities.

Broader Context and Outlook

CIVIL emphasizes that electoral integrity is not measured solely by the conduct of voting day, but also by the broader context — including the transparency of institutions, the independence and professionalism of the media, equal opportunities for all candidates, and the level of public trust in the electoral process.

CIVIL will continue monitoring and analyzing the vote counting process, publication of results, and post-election developments, including potential reactions by political actors.

A final assessment and recommendations will be presented after the completion of all activities related to the first round of the local elections.

CIVIL Monitoring Team