Zoran Zaev showed up at the SDSM 35th anniversary celebration - five minutes before the end, after all speeches and music were done. What's up, comrades, he said with a smile and got applause. Hugs, photos, and the familiar camaraderie followed. Zaev had come from a documentary film premiere in Skopje - he always has a good reason for being late.

Before him, SDSM president Venko Filipce delivered a speech calling the party a great idea for Macedonia and reminded the audience of key moments - independence, the Ohrid Framework Agreement, NATO membership. SDSM is ready for elections whenever needed, said Filipce, adding criticism of what he called false patriotism.

Buckovski and Zecevic also attended, but Branko Crvenkovski was notably absent - a detail that doesn't go unnoticed. A 35-year-old party with more former leaders than current ideas? Or an organization that, despite everything, keeps existing while others fall apart?

Zaev did what he does best - arrived late, made a scene, and left. The question is whether his presence on Bihacka Street is a sign of a comeback, or just a nostalgic picnic. SDSM celebrates 35 years, but its greatest achievements - NATO membership, the Prespa Agreement - remain controversial with the public. Is the birthday a cause for celebration or for soul-searching?