The opposition SDSM party has strongly criticized Minister Ljutkov for allegedly undermining the rights of cultural workers. They accuse him of attacking the collective agreement for culture and failing to ensure timely payment of salaries.

According to SDSM, Minister Ljutkov’s statement calling the collective agreement “illegal” is a direct assault on the rights and dignity of all cultural workers. They maintain that the agreement is a necessary instrument for workers’ protection and a legal obligation. SDSM emphasizes that this agreement resulted from the workers’ efforts, dialogue, and a fair policy enacted during their time in power, a period marked by salary increases and respect for employee rights.

The party claims that cultural workers have not received their March salaries and that the agreed-upon conditions are not being met. They further allege that the Ministry of Culture has failed to address the issue, while funds are available for other purposes. SDSM attributes this situation to incompetence, wasteful spending, and the failure of Minister Ljutkov and the DPMNE government.

SDSM has demanded that Minister Ljutkov apologize to all cultural workers and ensure the full payment of March salaries, including the increases stipulated in the collective agreement. They also call for the complete respect of the agreement. Furthermore, they are questioning whether the alleged attack on the collective agreement is a prelude to further cuts in the rights of cultural workers based on party affiliation.