Why is this important: The diaspora vote, although not decisive in terms of mandates, is seen as a symbolic indicator of broader political trends and party appeal among Albanians living abroad. The current tally adds to SP’s overall national lead, reinforcing the narrative of a fourth consecutive mandate for Prime Minister Edi Rama’s party.

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.

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.