Democratic Party Parliamentary Group vows to attend parliamentary session amidst suspensions and escalating tensions
The head of the Democratic Party’s (PD) parliamentary group Gazment Bardhi confirmed that PD members would attend tomorrow’s parliamentary session, regardless of attempts to block their entry. He stated, “They can put an army or police in our way, but in a NATO and EU candidate country, preventing MPs from entering parliament shows the true nature of Edi Rama’s government.”
What happened last time in Parliament: During the last two parliamentary sessions, Democrat MPs clashed with security and attempted to block the proceedings. They removed the MPs’ chairs from the hall and set fire to them in the courtyard of the Albanian Parliament in protest of the recent conviction of their colleague, Ervin Salianji, sentenced to one year in prison for false reporting. The incident marked a dramatic escalation of opposition tactics and resulted in the suspension of 24 opposition MPs by the Ethics Secretariat.
The suspension led to violent clashes between PD MPs and parliamentary security forces as opposition members attempted to re-enter the building despite the suspension. The opposition claims the government is using the judiciary to silence key figures like Salianji, who they claim exposed a corruption scandal involving a former interior minister’s brother. The audio on which Salianji based his accusations was proved to have been fabricated in an operation set in motion by Salianji himself.
Incidents in parliamentary commissions: Tensions continued today during a meeting of the Parliamentary Investigative Commission on the Sterilization Concession. PD MP Albana Vokshi clashed with socialist MPs, repeatedly tearing out microphones and throwing objects on the floor in protest. The situation escalated when PD MP Xhelal Mziu physically assaulted Socialist MP Milva Ekonomi.
Niko Peleshi, head of the Socialist Party parliamentary group, condemned the violence against a colleague MP and d a woman, stating, “The opposition is bringing its crisis to parliament. Physical assaults on MPs, staff, and security are unacceptable and condemnable.”
Go deeper
SPAK concludes investigations against Sali Berisha in “Partizani” corruption case
Published on October 16, 2024
Why is this important: This marks the first time in Albania’s history that such high-level political figures have been targeted by the justice system. Berisha, a former president (1992–1997) and two-term prime minister (2005–2013), is accused of using his political power to benefit his son-in-law in the privatization of the Partizani sports complex. SPAK alleges that Berisha orchestrated legal changes during his time in office to favor Malltezi, leading to significant financial gains.
Albanian High Court rejects Democrat MP’s request to suspend prison sentence
Published on October 15, 2024
Why is it important: Salianji’s conviction stems from his role in a controversial case from 2018, where he accused the brother of former Interior Minister Fatmir Xhafaj, of involvement in a drug trafficking conspiracy. The case drew widespread attention in Albania, as it involved allegations of political protection for criminals. However, investigations by the Prosecution revealed that the evidence had been fabricated with Salianji playing a key role in the affair. The High Court’s decision signals a continuation of Salianji’s legal struggles and further solidifies the judiciary’s stance on the case.
Albanian PM confident country will join EU by 2030 despite opposition criticism
Published on October 15, 2024
Why is it important: Albania has held EU candidate status for over a decade. Internal challenges within the country, as well as issues within the EU itself, have delayed the accession process for Albania, which is widely regarded as one of the most pro-European countries in the region. Securing EU membership would not only enhance Albania’s political standing but also reinforce legal reforms, democratic principles, and economic growth.