Democrats to take their seats in parliament despite rejecting May 11 elections

Although they continue to reject the results of the May 11 elections, the Democratic Party will take up its seats in parliament. Party leader Sali Berisha made the announcement after convening the party’s presidency, one of its highest decision-making bodies. Berisha also warned of a political action plan inside and outside parliament until, as he put it, “the free vote is restored.”

Why is this important: Since losing power in 2013, the Democrats have repeatedly refused to recognize election results, using methods such as boycotts, burning parliamentary mandates, conditional participation, street protests, and blocking plenary sessions. Eventually, they have always returned to parliament and its committees. Today’s decision therefore is not entirely new, though critics argue it appears driven by the personal interests of the party leadership, who, despite calling the elections a farce, will still benefit from parliamentary mandates, including salaries and privileges.

Context: Berisha framed the move as part of a broader strategy against the government.

“Before this mountain of facts of an electoral farce, our battle requires new energy, new strength, and new forms,” Berisha said, calling for a renewed and more dynamic opposition fight.

He added that, alongside domestic action, the Democrats will continue lobbying international institutions to denounce what they describe as election manipulation and rising crime and corruption under Prime Minister Edi Rama. The presidency meeting precedes a gathering of the Democratic parliamentary group, scheduled ahead of parliament’s first plenary session on September 12.

Next steps: The Democrats are expected to use their first appearance in parliament to set the tone for their new political offensive, which will include both parliamentary interventions and actions outside the legislature.