July 8, 1997: Sali Ramadani Raises the Albanian National Flag in Macedonia’s Parliament

 On July 8, 1997, Albanian MP Sali Ramadani raised the Albanian national flag inside the Parliament of Macedonia, in a moment that would become a memorable episode in the political history of Albanians in the country.

 On July 8, 1997, Albanian MP Sali Ramadani defiantly raised the Albanian national flag inside the Parliament of Macedonia, declaring his determination to defend national symbols and the rights of Albanians. This memorable moment preceded the violent clashes in Gostivar.

Despite reactions from fellow MPs and parliamentary officials, Ramadani refused to back down. He addressed those present in the Albanian language, expressing his determination to defend the national flag and the rights of Albanians in Macedonia.

"Do not be afraid, it doesn't bite! The day will come when this flag will be official, and the day will come when Albanian will be spoken in this Parliament. I am not afraid of you. If you don't know, I am the grandson of the Mefaili family of Zajaz. I am Sali Ramadani," he declared.

The incident took place just one day before the violent clashes of July 9, 1997, in Gostivar, which were connected to the dispute over the use of the Albanian national flag on local government buildings.

Sali Ramadani, also known as Sali Ramadani of Kërçova, passed away on January 27, 2018, leaving behind a moment that continues to be remembered in the political history of Albanians in North Macedonia.

His act in Parliament remains associated with the struggle for the recognition of the Albanian national symbols, language and rights in the country.