A European Union-brokered deal to end a political crisis in Macedonia hung in the balance Saturday after opponents of conservative Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski threatened to boycott an early parliamentary election in April.

All sides had agreed last year to an April 24 election, two years ahead of schedule, under EU mediation to end months of bitter standoff over allegations against Gruevski's government of illegal phone-tapping and widespread abuse of office.

Almost a decade in power, Gruevski's government was bombarded last year by allegations of illegal surveillance, meddling in the media and judiciary, rigging elections and appointing party faithful to public sector jobs.

Gruevski's commands enough votes in parliament to endorse his resignation and force an election regardless of Zaev's threats to boycott.

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