The government has rejected an amendment proposed by SDSM (Social Democratic Union of Macedonia) to provide financial assistance to the families of victims and those injured in Kochani. The rejection occurred during an amendment debate on the Budget rebalance, sparking criticism from SDSM.

Oliver Spasovski, coordinator of the SDSM parliamentary group, expressed disappointment that the government did not accept the amendment or offer an explanation for its rejection. Spasovski emphasized that the budget has sufficient funds and urged the government to reconsider. He even offered to withdraw all other SDSM amendments if this one was accepted.

According to Spasovski, the proposed amendment sought to allocate 934 million and 340 thousand denars for direct assistance to those affected by the tragedy. He argued that this issue should be a top priority for the country and that the government’s refusal to support the amendment demonstrated a lack of responsibility and willingness to help those in need.

Spasovski also criticized the VMRO-DPMNE MPs, along with MPs from ZNAM and VLEN, for not supporting the SDSM amendment. He questioned how elected officials could fail to provide support to citizens during such a difficult time. He stressed the importance of showing unity and solidarity, especially in the wake of the tragedy.

Looking ahead, Spasovski urged the government and ruling parties to allocate sufficient financial resources in the new 2026 Budget to support the families of the deceased and injured in Kochani. He underscored that nothing is more important than addressing the aftermath of the tragedy, which involved the loss of 62 young lives and injuries to 250 people.