VMRO-DPMNE, in compliance with the Constitution and laws and in line with the envisaged dynamics and deadlines, will propose to the Parliament of Macedonia early parliamentary polls to be held on 5 June 2011, premier and party leader Nikola Gruevski told a news conference on Wednesday.

Referring to the opposition and all those who "think that there are other options beside fair, free and democratic elections", Gruevski said Macedonia had no alternative but to move forward.

"Fair, free and democratic elections will held. Those planning to mar them will be punished by the institutions of the system. Branko, you and I are aware that the citizens will vote for progress, instead for transition in the polls, stated Gruevski at a press conference held in party's headquarters.

Earlier today, SDSM president Branko Crvenkovski announced that his party "is quiting all of its demands and plans to take part in the elections".

"However, we are not coming back to the Parliament," he said asking the ruling party to fix an election date.

Commenting SDSM's decision, Gruevski said Crvenkovski and his party had tortured the public in Macedonia and the international community.

"Mr. Crvenkovski, it's irresponsible to spread anger, hatred and destruction for four months. After he harmed Macedonia's reputation, after he put at risk the positive European Commission report and recommendation for start of EU membership talks, after his decision to leave the Parliament was condemned by the local and international community, he reaches such a decision," stated Gruevski.

Crvenkovski, he added, has reached this decision after realising that the ruling coalition decided to respond positively to elections, despite blackmailing, bluffing and destructive acts and threats for scenarios similar to the recent developments in Egypt and Tunis.