ANALYSIS OF THE ELECTORAL SYSTEM FOR PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS IN THE REPUBLIC OF NORTH MACEDONIA: ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES
Keywords:
President, North Macedonia, Presidential Elections, Constitution, Electoral CodeAbstract
The Constitution of North Macedonia (1991) determined the system of parliamentary democracy where the system of government is based on the division and balance between the three powers, the legislative, the executive, and the juridical. The three branches of power are separate, distinct, and independent of each other. Executive power is in the hands of the President and the Government.
The President is considered "neutral power" that is not involved in the political game, but stands above the parties and does not perform any active function in the realization and determination of political direction. From the protocol point of view, it is considered the highest state body, which is not subject to orders or control by other bodies; however, it is obliged to respect and protect the Constitution and laws. Its main role is the exercise of the unity of the people which is achieved through good decisions for the benefit of the citizen, neutrality towards political parties and ensuring the normal functioning of the constitutional system.
The legitimacy of the President is gained directly from the free vote of the citizens of the Republic of North Macedonia; however, his role is significantly smaller compared to countries with a presidential or semi-presidential system where the election of the President is done directly by the citizens.
This paper analyzes the current electoral system for presidential elections in North Macedonia. The two-round majority system favors the election of the president by the dominant community, avoiding the exercise of the function by other non-Macedonian ethnicities.
The research is divided into two planes: theoretical and practical. Descriptive, historical, comparative methods, as well as analysis of positive national legislation, are used for the needs of the paper. Primary data are taken from surveys conducted with some random citizens, which show attitudes and preferences regarding the presidential election.
The study highlights the advantages and disadvantages of the current electoral system for the election of the President and raises some questions about the possible reforms to enable approximation to European standards.
The study concludes with conclusions and suggestions that would contribute to the advancement of democracy in the country.
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