Nightclub Fire in North Macedonia Spurs Grief, Accountability

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    In Kocani, North Macedonia, a nightclub fire has caused heartbreak throughout the nation, with families gathering outside hospitals for any news. For Tomco Stojanov, the pain is immeasurable after losing his son, Andrej, aged 25. “He died trying to save others and was tragically run over,” he lamented, holding his son’s photo. The fire at Club Pulse, amidst a live concert, resulted in 59 fatalities and over 150 injuries as a panicked crowd surged towards the building’s sole exit.

    The nation, home to around 2 million people, shares a deep sense of grief over the tragedy which included victims as young as 16. The incident has sparked calls for accountability and the need to prevent future disasters. Videos captured the moment pyrotechnics set the ceiling ablaze. North Macedonian President Gordana Davkova Siljanovska expressed her shock and grief during a national address, stating, “We are in dismay.” A period of mourning lasting seven days has been declared.

    Authorities are looking into potential safety violations at the overcrowded venue. Allegations of bribery are being investigated as government officials ordered a comprehensive review of nightclubs across the country. State prosecutor Ljupco Kocevski revealed glaring omissions at the site, including inadequate emergency exits and fire safety equipment. The fire left the building’s roof partially collapsed, revealing a scene of devastation.

    The aftermath in the town of 25,000 is harrowing, with emergency teams working tirelessly to manage the situation. A state coroner mentioned the overwhelming task of identifying the deceased due to the sheer number involved. Flags are flying at half-mast as the community mourns, with 20 injured individuals still in critical care. North Macedonia’s health minister confirmed that nearby nations such as Greece, Bulgaria, and others have begun treating the most severely injured.

    “We hope for positive updates on those treated abroad,” commented Health Minister Arben Taravari. Meanwhile, 10 individuals are in police custody for questioning, and further inspections revealed the nightclub operated without a valid license, far exceeding its capacity. Interior Minister Panche Toshkovski underscored these findings, highlighting an urgent need for reform.

    International condolences are pouring in, including from European leaders and the Pope’s office. In a show of unity, the people of Kocani held a candlelight vigil, standing in long queues to light candles in memory of the lost. According to Beti Delovska, an economist from Skopje, the country faces profound challenges compounded by this tragedy, echoing the sentiments of many about the dire state of national institutions.

    “North Macedonia finds itself in grave distress, with failing institutions and widespread corruption. Only divine intervention seems capable of offering salvation now,” Delovska remarked, reflecting on the somber mood engulfing the nation.