The Social Democratic Union of Macedonia (SDSM) is criticizing the government and relevant institutions for their silence and lack of action following the ecological disaster in Kriva Reka, where contaminated material spilled into the river.

SDSM is questioning the government’s priorities and accusing VMRO-DPMNE of irresponsible behavior, asking why the government has remained silent for four days after confirmation of cyanide and heavy metals in the water. They allege a politically motivated claim that “only water spilled” was made without proper analysis.

An independent laboratory analysis showed dramatically increased levels of cyanides, lead, phosphorus, and other toxic substances in the Kriva River following a spill from the Toranica mine on March 14. SDSM asserts that these levels directly threaten life, health, agriculture, and food safety.

The Environmental Inspectorate is accused of inaction and misinformation, claiming “only water” had spilled without conducting any analysis. SDSM is calling on the Government and Minister Izet Mejiti to immediately answer whether new, complete analyses of the waters of Kriva Reka, Pchinja, and Vardar will be conducted. They are also demanding to know what measures are being taken to protect water supply and food in the region and why no inspection reports for the Toranica mine have been published.

SDSM highlights the director of the Toranica mine, Toni Tonevski, as a VMRO-DPMNE party member, and notes that MP Emil Spasovski, also from VMRO-DPMNE, accused the mayor of Kriva Palanka of “spreading panic” for requesting water analysis. SDSM emphasizes the seriousness of the situation, stating it is a matter of life and health, and condemns the government’s silence while citizens live in uncertainty.