Afrim Gashi on Constitutional Amendments: 'We Are Ready to Vote, But 80 Votes Are Non-Negotiable'

The Parliamentary Deadlock

Afrim Gashi, the President of the Assembly of North Macedonia, addressed the ongoing impasse regarding the country's constitutional amendments today, June 3, 2026. The amendments are a critical requirement for the nation's continued path toward European Union integration.

Despite the political pressure surrounding the issue, Gashi clarified that the primary obstacle remains the lack of a two-thirds majority in parliament. Adoption of these changes requires a minimum of 80 votes out of 120, a threshold that has remained elusive due to the current composition of the assembly.

Commitment to EU Integration

Gashi, representing the VLEN coalition, emphasized that his bloc's support for the amendments remains steadfast. He noted that the coalition is prepared to cast their votes in favor of the changes at any moment, provided the necessary parliamentary conditions are met.

"We are ready to vote today. However, without the required 80 votes, the constitutional process simply cannot proceed. It is a mathematical reality, not a matter of political will from our side."

Addressing Coalition Stability

While speculation regarding the stability of the governing coalition often arises during parliamentary debates, Gashi focused his remarks on the procedural mechanics of the Assembly. He underscored that his primary responsibility as Speaker is to facilitate the legislative process, while stressing that the success of the constitutional amendments depends on broader consensus across the political spectrum.