Albanian President launches consultations on parliamentary election date

President Bajram Begaj has commenced discussions with political parties to finalize the date for the upcoming parliamentary elections. Leaders from various small parties, met first with the president to present their proposals.

What was said: Agron Duka, leader of the Agrarian Environmental Party (PAA), proposed May 4 as a potential election date. He noted the constitutional window for elections runs from April 15 to May 15 but highlighted that May 11 could pose challenges due to the European Political Community Summit scheduled in Tirana.

“The summit might significantly impact the elections,” Duka stated.

Shpëtim Idrizi, head of the Party for Justice, Integration, and Unity (PDIU), suggested a date after May 9, emphasizing the need for sufficient time to prepare for diaspora voting. He also noted that the PDIU is awaiting the Constitutional Court’s decision on open candidate lists, which could influence voter choices.

Context: The discussions mark an important step in setting the stage for Albania’s parliamentary elections. The final decision on the date will need to balance constitutional guidelines, logistical considerations, and political input. President Begaj is expected to continue consultations before announcing the official date.