The census is a statistical operation that we must carry out, it’s our duty, Prime Minister Zoran Zaev said Wednesday.

Commenting on calls from the opposition to postpone census, Zaev asked whether postponing the census to May 2022 would change anything.

“Census is slated for April 1-21 and it needs to be done. Although there were calls as to whether anything needs to be changed, I can say once again – a census can’t be conducted in summer, election campaign is due in September, and local elections in October. If we keep postponing, when can we do it? Postpone it to May? What will it change? Therefore, all of us need to focus on being responsible and conduct the census,” Zaev said in response to a reporter’s question.

The PM stressed that the census is an obligation clearly specified by law.

“The census is an immediate need in the interest of all citizens of the Republic of North Macedonia,” Zaev pointed out.

He said they are open for all issues to be resolved through dialogue and it is nice to always build consensus where possible. However, he reiterated that the country hasn’t taken a census for 20 years.

“It’s as if we’re working in the dark, all of us here in the government, in municipalities, the mayors, all public state and local enterprises, all private companies, everyone. We don’t know the figures, the exact numbers, our industrial parameters, basic resources, and where it can present serious indications to maximize economic growth and development,” said Zaev.