The Municipality of Kočani is embroiled in a dispute over whether it applied for a government program aimed at bolstering fire prevention efforts. Accusations of negligence have been leveled against the acting mayor, Venko Krstevski, by the VMRO-DPMNE party.

The controversy arose after a government spokesperson announced that Kočani, along with Strumica, was not among the 14 municipalities with fire departments that applied for the measure. This measure involves engaging 400 people in municipalities to assist with extinguishing fires, providing them with a monthly income.

VMRO-DPMNE has strongly criticized Krstevski, alleging that he is jeopardizing public safety by failing to pursue the opportunity to strengthen the local Territorial Firefighting Unit. They questioned his motives, suggesting he was acting against the interests of the citizens. The party further stated that this is not the first time Krstevski has obstructed initiatives, citing his opposition to the opening of the state Center for Rehabilitation in Ponikva.

However, Krstevski refutes these accusations. He insists that the municipality did apply for the program and welcomes the measure. He stated that the application form was properly submitted and expressed hope that the government would approve the engagement of 23 individuals for fire prevention within the municipality.

Krstevski also highlighted the need for additional professional firefighters, requesting the employment of 15 new personnel for the Territorial Firefighting Unit in Kočani. He further brought up the pending approval from the Ministry of Finance for new hires at the “Detelinki” kindergarten, a matter that has left over 200 parents in uncertainty. He urged the government to address the situation at the kindergarten, where many children are on a waiting list for care.