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: Kosovo has failed to constitute a functioning parliament in thirteen separate sessions since the February 9 elections, leaving the country in a prolonged political vacuum. Kurti’s insistence on maintaining Haxhiu as his party’s only candidate for speaker has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties, who view her as too divisive. The impasse underscores deeper institutional challenges and raises concerns about Kosovo’s democratic maturity.

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: Since 2024, at least six individuals with serious criminal records have been deported or extradited from the United Arab Emirates to Albania—marking a significant shift in what was once seen as an impenetrable barrier to Albanian justice efforts. The change signals a turning point in international cooperation on organized crime, particularly between Albania and the UAE. Long criticized for being uncooperative on criminal extraditions, Emirati authorities now seem more open to facilitating the return of fugitives. It’s a blow to Albania’s underworld, which had relied on Dubai as a last refuge.

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.

Why is this important: The May 11 elections will determine the makeup of Albania’s next parliament, with 140 seats up for grabs. A total of 2,046 candidates are competing, with the electorate numbering over 3.7 million. For the first time, Albanian citizens living abroad have been allowed to vote remotely—a significant expansion of voting rights. Additionally, the election will be held under a hybrid system combining closed and open lists.

Why is this important: This marks the first time that Giro d’Italia stages are taking place in Albania, showcasing the country on an international sporting platform and boosting its tourism and infrastructure profile.

Why is this important: The initial tweet, posted Wednesday by journalist Marc Caputo, was immediately seized upon by Berisha’s Democratic Party as evidence that his travel ban to the United States had been lifted. Supporters celebrated the post as a sign of renewed U.S. support under the Republican-controlled State Department. Berisha himself issued instructions to his candidates to post celebratory messages and appeared alongside Trump-linked figures at a rally in Shkodër. However, U.S. authorities have confirmed that the designation remains firmly in place.