Lulzim Basha, leader of the PD-Euroatlantic Democrats and former leader of the Democratic Party, has criticized DP refusal to adopt electronic voting and counting, labeling Sali Berisha as Prime Minister Edi Rama’s “crutch.”

Why is this important: Basha’s remarks highlight internal divisions within the Democratic Party and bring attention to the ongoing debate over electoral reforms in Albania. Under Basha’s previous leadership, the party had consistently advocated for electronic voting as a safer and more regulated system.

Background: Basha led the Democratic Party until 2021, when he fell out with Berisha after the latter was declared persona non grata by the U.S. for alleged corruption. Basha requested Berisha step aside until he could clear his name, leading to a rift between the two. Interestingly, Berisha had supported Basha’s rise to party leadership in 2013.

Basha’s accusations: In a statement on social media, Basha accused Berisha and his faction of serving only their own “small and petty interests.”

“To throw away the Democrats’ years-long battle for electronic voting and counting is a humiliating act,” Basha said. “Berisha has lost all moral and political legitimacy, appearing as Rama’s crutch, with whom he shares the same fate.” According to Basha, the sabotage of the Electoral Reform Commission and the blocking of electronic voting serve to protect Rama’s power and Berisha’s opposition theatrics.

The bigger picture: Under Basha’s leadership, the Democratic Party repeatedly pushed for electronic voting, considering it a means to enhance election integrity. The party’s current rejection of this system marks a significant shift, raising questions about its commitment to electoral reforms.