Edi Rama and « They were 5 », a symbolic gesture with Zyliha Milotin, icon of citizenship and art in Shkodra

At the conclusion of the May 11th parliamentary elections, the Prime Minister and at the same time the leader of the Socialist Party, Edi Rama, chose to leave Shkodra with a symbolic gesture that encompasses more than one number on the ballot. In a recent post on social networks, he shared a photo showing five women – « They were 5 » – a direct allusion to number 5, the position of the Socialist Party on the ballot.

But what makes this image remain in memory is not only political symbolism, but the presence of a figure that represents the spirit of Shkodra in a worthy way: Zyliha Miloti, the legendary actress, the icon of humor, drama, citizenship and artistic devotion.

Zyliha Miloti, who continues to be present on the stage of the « Migjeni » theater today, remains a name that does not fade in the cultural memory of the city. It is an inspiration for the younger generations, like those four young girls who accompanied her in this symbolic photo – perhaps for the first time, perhaps the voice of a Shkodra seeking to be heard through her democratic engagement.

« They were 5, » Rama writes, with an implication that goes beyond the number and permeates a broader horizon: a will that seeks to transform Shkodra, re -establish its civic potential and contribute to the great Europeanization project of Albania.

In this silent but clear message, the politics, art and heritage of a city are mixed that, while often left on the margins of development, continues to be one of the precious stones of Albanian identity. And when the hands, eyes and presence of a woman like Zyliha Miloti speak about it, everything makes more sense.

Albert Vataj