The visual identity of the "A Brightly Shining Day" celebration, dedicated to the 35th anniversary of Macedonia's independence, caused political reactions between SDSM and VMRO-DPMNE.
SDSM reacted to the symbol depicted within the scenography, assessing that it was an oversight with the Macedonian state flag and accusing the government led by Hristijan Mickoski of unprofessionalism and disrespect for state symbols.
The opposition party asked the Government to explain which company was hired to organize the celebration, who was in charge of the scenography and visual identity, and how much money was spent.
SDSM also demands that responsibility be determined for, as they say, the omission with the state symbol, assessing that this is "a new shame and a new humiliation."
VMRO-DPMNE, however, rejects the criticism and explains that the disputed visual element was an artistic installation. The ruling party says that the multi-pointed sun within the scenography merged into the eight-rayed Macedonian flag.
"SDS now cares about both the Macedonian sun and the art installation," VMRO-DPMNE said, accusing the opposition party of trying to denigrate the event.
VMRO-DPMNE also recalls previous SDSM policies related to state symbols, constitutional changes, and historical issues, directing a series of criticisms towards the opposition party and its leader Venko Filipche.
The ruling party believes that "A Bright Day" united the country and was positively received by citizens, while it views the criticism from SDSM as an attempt to denigrate the event.
Thus, the controversial visual element of the celebration became the occasion for a new political showdown, with the two parties having completely opposing interpretations – SDSM is demanding responsibility for the omission, while VMRO-DPMNE claims that it was an artistic solution.
