Political parties in Macedonia have a long tradition of drafting public sector employees to attend their political events. But the state owned TEC Negotino energy plant surprised the public when it was revealed today that it is organizing transportation for its employees to the capital Skopje if they want to attend – the gay pride.

The parade is planned for June 29th and the Zaev Government is promoting it strongly, through its allied left wing civic sector groups. TEC Negotino is a largely unused oil fired electricity plant, used for reserve in cases of emergencies, and its employees often have little to do. After several incidents in which the new, SDSM appointed management was openly encouraging party activism in the plant, now the employees were offered a bus ride from Negotino to Skopje for the pride.

TEC Negotino informs you that our company is organizing bus transportation for the gay parade in Skopje. All employees who are interested in attending can report on Monday with the organizers. Our company happily supports events of such character, the notification that was shared online today says.

When politically appointed management “invites” the employees to a party rally and bolster its turnout, it is seen as “an offer you can’t refuse”, given that your job can depend on it. We’ll see on Monday, by the number of employees who register, if such incentives apply for gay prides as well.