President Gjorge Ivanov condemned in Ohrid Thursday the violent protests that have been staged since the verdict in the Monster murder case was pronounced and appealed that all open issues be resolved institutionally.

"Protests are allowed everywhere yet violence cannot be tolerated. Our state has functional institutions capable of handling challenges. The relevant institutions take all that's necessary to prevent any form of violence," he said.

Appeals for peaceful protests and easing of tension came from all political and religious leaders in the country, especially after protests have been announced for Friday afternoon, set to begin following the prayer service in Skopje's mosques.

Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski appealed for peaceful protests again on Thursday and said institutions would not tolerate violence.