Why this is important: According to the current results, the DP and its allies are expected to secure just 50 seats—down from 63 in the 2021 elections and the party’s worst showing since 1997, when Albania was engulfed in anarchy following the collapse of fraudulent pyramid schemes under DP rule. The outcome is even more damaging given that Berisha returned to the party leadership precisely to reverse the electoral underperformance seen during Lulzim Basha’s tenure. Instead, the results under Berisha are even lower, raising serious questions about his political future.

Why is this important: The results so far mark a sweeping win for the Socialists, who are gaining seats across nearly every district in the country. The opposition, led by Sali Berisha and the Democratic Party (DP) coalition, is experiencing a veritable collapse—falling to just 50 seats, a significant drop from their 63 in 2021. The diaspora vote is also leaning toward SP, albeit with a narrower margin. It currently leads with 47.23% compared to DP’s 38.60%.

Why is this important: The decision, announced by Chief Commissioner Ilirjan Celibashi, directly contradicts the CEC’s own rules, which require preliminary electronic results to be made public immediately after polls close. This was, in fact, one of the key promises behind the adoption and promotion of electronic voting. Critics say the delay lacks legal grounding, undermines transparency, and risks distorting public perception of the election outcome—especially since results from several voting centers in Vorë have already been leaked and widely circulated.

Why is this important: These early results, though limited in scope, provide the first snapshot of voting trends in key regions. In Vorë, District of Tirana, where electronic voting was used, 14 ballot boxes have been counted so far. SP has secured 1,315 votes, compared to 893 for the Democratic Party (PD). In Pustec, District of Korça, three boxes were counted manually, with PS receiving 419 votes and PD 208.

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.