Opinion by Mero Baze

Why is this important: The investigation puts new pressure on DP at a crucial moment, highlighting both financial transparency concerns and the potential misuse of lobbying for electoral purposes. It also raises the possibility of serious legal consequences if the source of funding is found to breach Albanian or U.S. regulations.

Why is this important: The new findings raise deeper questions about the legitimacy and transparency of the opposition’s international lobbying efforts. They suggest potential misuse of financial and legal structures, with implications for both DP’s political credibility and future legal accountability.

Why is this important: The controversy hits PD at a critical electoral moment, undermining its claims to transparency and reform. It highlights persistent concerns over political financing in Albania, and the apparent use of extraordinary resources to address a leader’s personal legal challenges. It also carries the risk of serious legal repercussions, both domestically and internationally, if violations of transparency and funding laws are confirmed.

Why is this important: The districts of Tirana and Shkodër together account for 48 parliamentary mandates, making them decisive in shaping the next government. The Piepoli survey shows that the Socialist Party is on track to win an additional seat in Tirana compared to 2021, while the Berisha-led coalition could lose up to four seats there. In Shkodër—long considered a stronghold of the right—PS is also projected to make gains, signaling a potentially significant political realignment.

Why this is important: The law was introduced by the Socialist government in response to a growing healthcare workforce crisis, as Albania loses a significant number of trained doctors—mostly to Germany and other EU countries—each year. With education funded by taxpayers, the measure aimed to ensure that graduates serve domestically before emigrating. Berisha’s vow to repeal the law, without offering an alternative strategy, seems to be a mere proposal to win the students support without any thought given to the consequences for a sector already facing shortages and systemic strain.

Why is this important: The continued failure to elect a Speaker is blocking the constitution of parliament and the formation of a new government. With only 57 votes in favor, Haxhiu’s candidacy has stalled, facing opposition from the main opposition parties. Critics, including opposition leader Memli Krasniqi, accuse VV of intentionally dragging out the process despite knowing their nominee lacks support. Without a resolution, Kosovo could face snap elections as early as May.

Why is this important: The ruling party’s decision marks a rare pause in the high-stakes campaign season. Prime Minister Edi Rama had been scheduled to hold meetings in the important district of Fier on Saturday but has informed participants that all events are canceled. In contrast, opposition leader Sali Berisha has said the Democratic Party will continue its campaign activities but will do so in a subdued manner — beginning events with a minute of silence and refraining from using campaign music.

Why is this important: While the diaspora vote marks a historic step for Albania’s electoral process, complaints from SP—and echoed by opposition parties—highlight growing concerns over the integrity and reliability of ballot delivery abroad. From missing ballots and empty envelopes to voters being asked to pay return postage, the incidents have drawn the attention of both CEC and AEPC, the national postal regulatory agency. CEC              chief Ilirjan Celibashi has downplayed the issues, calling them isolated, but admitted some problems require attention.

Why is this important: The data confirms a continued boom in Albania’s real estate market, despite tightening credit conditions and growing affordability concerns. In just six months, apartment prices across the country increased by 23.6%, with Tirana outpacing the rest of the market. The central bank attributes the price hikes to rising construction costs — including wages, energy, and transport — and sustained demand for housing.