Transparent process, but polarized climate! Continue with reforms, objective strategic integration

The European Union in the first stance on the May 11 elections states that they were inclusive and transparent. Through a joint statement from the Chief of Foreign Diplomacy, Kaja Kalas and Commissioner Marta Kos, the EU praises the authorities for the normal development of the electoral process throughout the country. The statement also mentions the Diaspora vote for the first time. The EU also refers to the preliminary conclusions of the OSCE/ODIHR, stressing the election day was calm and well organized, despite some shortcomings.

“On Sunday, the citizens of Albania exercised their democratic right to vote and elect the representatives in the Assembly. We congratulate all relevant authorities that ensured the normal development of the electoral process throughout the country. These elections also marked for the first time the voting from abroad. comprehensive and transparent, while the election day was calm and well organized, despite some shortcomings, ” stated in the statement.

The emphasis on the polarized political climate is also included by the European Union, which estimates that the candidates had the opportunity to campaign freely, although some reported on intimidation cases. The Union also welcomes efforts to investigate and prosecute electoral crimes, considering it a positive development.

« The elections were competitive and professionally developed, candidates had the opportunity to campaign freely, although some reported on intimidation cases. However, voting took place in a deep political polarization environment, where candidates did not have equal use. Wides Coordinated efforts to investigate and prosecute electoral crimes are a positive development, but continuing to address constant concerns over electoral irregularities is required. The statement is followed.

The European Union says it will carefully follow electoral developments until the final certification of results. The EU calls on to continue with membership reforms, stressing in the statement that EU integration is a strategic national objective. Finally, the European Union closes the statement by saying that « we reiterate our call for a constructive and inclusive political dialogue, as all political parties and all segments of Albanian society, from civil society organizations to local communities, have an important role to play in further advancement of this process. »