Why is this important: Despite the overall calm, a pattern of disruptive behavior by Democratic Party (DP) officials and supporters has emerged in several areas. This morning’s arrest of the husband of a DP MP marked the beginning of a series of tensions that continued throughout the day, including illegal entry into polling stations, attempts to intimidate voters, and threats directed at election officials. These incidents, while still isolated, appear to follow a broader pattern seen in recent weeks and suggest a coordinated effort rather than spontaneous misconduct.

Why is this important: The incident adds to mounting concerns over illegal “vote protection” practices by DP members and activists, especially in regions with tight races. Gjunkshi’s actions and those of his associates are now being investigated not only for alleged electoral misconduct, but also for taking the law into their own hands—raising tensions on the eve of elections.

Why is this important: The revelation not only contradicts Sali Berisha’s public denial but also exposes the extent of his party’s efforts—and spending—to engineer a narrative suggesting his return to favor with U.S. authorities. The documents make it clear that Berisha, knowing full well he has been refused twice and that there is no change in his non grata designation, has nevertheless tried very hard to mislead his supporters and the Albanian public by using a very dubious tweet by a U.S. journalist. The contradiction between his public statements and the formal lobbying efforts submitted to the U.S. State Department under the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) raises serious questions about transparency and honesty at the top of Albania’s main opposition party—just one day before national elections.

Why is this important: What makes this incident dangerous is that it mirrors past election flashpoints—most notably a deadly shooting during the 2021 campaign, when a member of the DP’s vote protection team killed an SP activist during an altercation caused by the “structures” attempts to take the law into its own hands. Although the Democratic Party claims these groups are meant to monitor the process, they have no legal authority to detain or stop vehicles. This has prompted fears that such actions amount to dangerous vigilante behavior that could intimidate voters and provoke retaliation by rivals.

Why is this important: The Giro d’Italia, one of the world’s most prominent cycling races, will pass through Vlora on the same day as Albania’s parliamentary elections. With road closures anticipated to last over four hours, access to at least 55 polling stations in the region may be significantly impacted. SP argues that the measure is necessary to protect citizens’ right to vote. Vlora is an SP bastion and SP has a real chance to obtain one additional MP in these election, but this hinges on the increased participation of voters.