Why is this important: This is the first time Albanian emigrants will vote from the countries where they live and work. Registered voters come from 107 countries, and the ballots will be sent via an international postal service, which the KQZ has yet to select. The online registration process closed at midnight, finalizing the 294,155 applications submitted by diaspora voters.

Why is this important: The surveillance of a Constitutional Court judge without any formal charges or investigation raises serious concerns about judicial independence and due process. SPAK’s actions bypass legal safeguards, setting a dangerous precedent where judges can be monitored based on vague suspicions rather than concrete evidence. This case highlights growing fears of prosecutorial overreach, undermining trust in the justice system and threatening constitutional separation of powers.

Why is this important: The agreement marks the fulfilment of a long fought for demand by Albanian emigrants, as well as a promise by the Rama Government. It provides financial security for approximately 500,000 Albanian emigrants in Italy and 4,000 Italian citizens living in Albania, including business owners. Workers will now be able to apply for pensions in both countries, based on the total years of contributions paid. This measure ensures that individuals who have worked in both nations will not lose their rights to retirement benefits, even if they have not met the minimum contribution years in one single country. Coming on the eve of the elections, the agreement could potentially influence the vote of migrants who will vote for the first time in the May 11 elections.

Why is this important: The agreement secures eight guaranteed seats in the closed list for five of PD’s allies, ensuring their presence in parliament. The Party of Freedom (PL), led by Ilir Meta, received the largest share with four safe seats, while other traditional allies, like Fatmir Mediu, Vangjel Dule, Agron Duka, and Shpëtim Idrizi each secured one. Most of PD’s allies lack independent electoral weight, having not run separately since 2017, relying instead on PD’s lists.

Why is this important: While DP primaries have always been marred by accusations of manipulation, this time it can ill afford the tensions and divisions. However, the most controversial element of the primaries was the triumph of notorious figures with problematic pasts in the justice system in the candidate selection process. Former judge Gjin Gjoni declared non grata by the U.S., and former prosecutor Arjan Ndoja, who failed the justice vetting process, both secured nominations, despite their notorious history. Their inclusion reinforces Berisha’s intent to weaken SPAK and reshape the judiciary.