Democratic Party presents “Alliance for a Majestic Albania” coalition

The Democratic Party has officially unveiled the “Alliance for a Majestic Albania” coalition. There are 26 parties in the coalition, that Berisha described as the strongest coalition in three decades of pluralism. According to him, it is the most elite and representative political formation, through which he aims to secure victory in the May 11 elections.

Why is this important: The Democratic Party is presenting this coalition as the strongest and most inclusive alliance in Albania’s pluralist history. However, while 26 parties may sound a lot on paper, almost all of them are parties that exists only on paper with negligible electoral support. Indeed, most rely on DP support for their political survival. Berisha aims to use this coalition to challenge Rama’s Socialist government, promising economic relief and institutional reforms.

Context: Berisha praised his coalition, portraying it as a broad and diverse alliance that represents the best interests of Albanians.

“This coalition represents, by far, the political and all-encompassing elite of the Albanian nation. It is the coalition of transparency, of men and women, of young people who are known and respected by Albanians. A coalition that represents all interests, all social strata, and the various communities of this nation.”

At the core of the “Majestic Albania” economic program, Berisha promises the country’s revival, starting with dignified wages and pensions, and a reduction of taxes and service costs within the first three months of governance.

“We solemnly commit that in the first three months, every Albanian will receive a minimum of 200 euros for basic living expenses. No salary will be lower than 500 euros. The average wage will not be below 1,200 euros. We will introduce a consumer card. Medication will be of far higher quality—no more drugs with only a fraction of the intended effect. This government has no conscience. Fuel will not cost a single cent more than in Kosovo. Energy prices will drop—down to 7 lek per kWh, and for businesses, it will be 6 lek. Property owners and former political prisoners will receive every penny they are owed within the first mandate.”

On Rama: Berisha used the occasion to attack Prime Minister Edi Rama, calling him the fiercest enemy of the Albanian people and accusing him of plundering the nation’s wealth over three terms in office.

“A man who has governed for 12 years and cannot point to a single achievement for the Albanian people. He dares not even mention the Llogara tunnel because it carries a 50-million-euro theft. He won’t talk about the Ring Road because the final 13 kilometers were split into 14 separate contracts. He promised 24-hour water supply, yet conditions are worse than ever. He vowed increased pensions and wages, but now, if the minimum pension is raised even slightly, Albania will face economic disaster.”

Berisha also addressed Rama’s sarcastic remarks about his coalition’s candidates, responding with his own humor.

“What does the other side present? Lizards, frogs, toads—and now they’re stuck in his throat.”

Continuing his accusations against the Prime Minister, Berisha stated in a press appearance that Rama is fighting for survival after May 11.

“Whether or not he will be on the candidate list, that’s up to him. But where he will be after May 11? That’s up to the Albanian people. And they have already written his ticket. Edi Rama is fighting for survival after May 11.”

Allegations of secret negotiations: Berisha alleged that there have been behind-the-scenes overtures from the Prime Minister to merge votes with the Democratic Party in order to dissolve SPAK.

“In diplomatic and other circles, this issue has been raised. And this could never have happened. He claimed I was begging him—but in reality, he was begging me. He pleaded but failed. I will never join votes with him because not a single step will be taken without Venice [Commission] reviewing the matter. He has miscalculated his attempt to dismantle SPAK and has been left empty-handed.”

What else: Berisha also denied having a final list of parliamentary candidates, reiterating that the leadership will respect the decisions made by the party’s membership and promising representation from the diaspora.

“The diaspora will have names on the list.”

Once again, he called for nationwide protests on March 15 following the government’s decision to ban TikTok for a year, calling it an act of censorship against free speech.