In Focus
News in short
Berisha announces coalition plans ahead of elections
Published on January 11, 2025Why is this important: The announcement constitutes the strongest indication yet of the opposition’s strategy to unite forces against the ruling Socialist Party, in order to bolster its electoral chances. However, Berisha gave no indications of his position vis-à-vis the newly established parties that according to opinion polls appear to be attracting a significant chunk of DP’s former electorate.
In Focus
1. International bidding for Porto Romano reopens
December 30, 2024Why does it matter: The Porto Romano port project is a response to Albania’s growing need for updated infrastructure capable of meeting international trade demands. The new port is strategically positioned to serve not only Albania but also neighboring landlocked countries like Kosovo and North Macedonia. Its development could significantly reduce shipping costs and bolster regional trade and economic integration. Its importance lies not only in its potential to boost Albania’s trade capacity but also in its role as a catalyst for economic integration in the Balkans, a region long characterized by fragmented economies.
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Berisha announces coalition plans ahead of elections
Published on January 11, 2025Why is this important: The announcement constitutes the strongest indication yet of the opposition’s strategy to unite forces against the ruling Socialist Party, in order to bolster its electoral chances. However, Berisha gave no indications of his position vis-à-vis the newly established parties that according to opinion polls appear to be attracting a significant chunk of DP’s former electorate.
Elbasan Fortress revitalization project launched in partnership with AADF
Published on January 11, 2025Why is this important: Elbasan Fortress, a symbol of the city’s rich history, has long suffered from neglect. The revitalization project, spearheaded by AADF in partnership with the Albanian government, aims to replicate the success seen in other cities like Tirana, Korça, Vlora, Pogradec, Berat and Kruja. These initiatives have not only restored historical landmarks but have also boosted local economies by fostering tourism and creating sustainable management models.
Albanian diaspora registration opens for May elections
Published on January 11, 2025Why is this important: This marks the first time Albanians living abroad will be able to participate in the national elections remotely.
SPAK clears PM’s brother, Olsi Rama of Xibraka case allegations
Published on January 10, 2025Why is this important: The information discredits one of the opposition’s most significant and vocal accusations, led by Democratic Party parliamentary leader Gazment Bardhi. For years, Bardhi and former Prime Minister Sali Berisha have publicly accused Olsi Rama in involvement in the Xibraka case although they never explained what evidence there was for these claims and never formally filed an accusation with SPAK. However, DP tried hard to exploit these allegations for political ends portraying the alleged involvement of the Prime Minister’s brother with a cocaine trafficking gang as symbolic of broader government corruption and cooperation with the underworld. In this the opposition was helped by the fact that for years SPAK remained silent on the issue, despite the Prime Minister repeatedly urging it to clarify the matter, emphasizing the need for truth. The announcement follows another recent denial of a high-profile accusation from Berisha, this time against Pandeli Majko.
Albanian Government approves regulations for medical cannabis cultivation
Published on January 10, 2025Why is this important: The regulatory framework marks a significant step in Albania’s efforts to establish a legal and tightly controlled medical cannabis industry. The goal is to attract investment while ensuring compliance with international standards for cultivation, security, and monitoring.
Albanian Government approves legislation to boost development of mountainous areas
Published on January 10, 2025Why is this important: The legislation aims to revitalize mountainous regions that have lagged economically compared to urban and coastal areas. It introduces tax and fiscal incentives for up to 500 beneficiaries who meet the law’s requirements, helping to attract investments, create jobs, and formalize land ownership for long-term users of these properties.
Kosovo and U.S. to finalize strategic dialogue
Published on January 10, 2025Why is this important: The development underscores the strength of the partnership between Kosovo and the United States, despite a visible chill that has set in relations between the two countries in recent years. For Kosovo, the Strategic Dialogue represents a significant step toward enhancing its international standing and securing American support across critical areas. The Strategic Dialogue is expected to address several key areas to strengthen Kosovo-U.S. relations and improve opportunities for Kosovo’s citizens.
Latest polls suggest Albanian Socialists poised for landslide victory in May 11 elections
Published on January 10, 2025Why is this important: The survey reflects a sharp decline in support for the opposition Democratic Party (DP), which is expected to shrink to 46 mandates, down from the 59 it secured in 2021, including those of allied parties. The results also highlight a dramatic shift in voter preferences, with smaller and newer political parties gaining traction at the expense of established opposition forces. These parties are projected to win 12 mandates, positioning them as key players in Albania’s evolving political landscape.
Albanian opposition leader’s daughter, called to testify over allegations against judge
Published on January 10, 2025Why is this important: The investigation into Malltezi’s accusations comes amid heightened debate over Albania’s justice system and its capacity to address politically sensitive claims. Judge Gjoka had previously ordered house arrest measures for Malltezi’s father, Sali Berisha, and her husband, Jamarbër Malltezi, as part of the high-profile “Partizani” corruption case. It is crucial for SPAK to thoroughly investigate these allegations and uncover the truth, especially given the history of politically motivated attacks and “character assassinations” used by powerful figures to pressure and intimidate the justice system over the years.
SPAK denies investigating Socialist MP Pandeli Majko after Berisha’s allegations
Published on January 10, 2025Why is this important: The clarification comes amid heightened political tension in Albania, where accusations of corruption are frequently weaponized. Berisha’s claims sparked questions about potential misuse of public funds for electoral purposes by one of SP’s most senior and popular figures. SPAK’s unusually fast reaction has put the concerns at rest but raises questions on why the Structure has not reacted with the same speed on the endless list of other allegations issued by Berisha and other opposition figures. On Monday, following his court mandated appearance before SPAK, Berisha addressed a protest organized by his supporters on SPAK’s doorstep where he issued a spew of very serious accusations against SPAK and other senior SP figures. There has been no reaction yet from SPAK.
All latest stories
Elbasan Fortress revitalization project launched in partnership with AADF
Published on January 11, 2025Why is this important: Elbasan Fortress, a symbol of the city’s rich history, has long suffered from neglect. The revitalization project, spearheaded by AADF in partnership with the Albanian government, aims to replicate the success seen in other cities like Tirana, Korça, Vlora, Pogradec, Berat and Kruja. These initiatives have not only restored historical landmarks but have also boosted local economies by fostering tourism and creating sustainable management models.
Albanian diaspora registration opens for May elections
Published on January 11, 2025Why is this important: This marks the first time Albanians living abroad will be able to participate in the national elections remotely.
SPAK clears PM’s brother, Olsi Rama of Xibraka case allegations
Published on January 10, 2025Why is this important: The information discredits one of the opposition’s most significant and vocal accusations, led by Democratic Party parliamentary leader Gazment Bardhi. For years, Bardhi and former Prime Minister Sali Berisha have publicly accused Olsi Rama in involvement in the Xibraka case although they never explained what evidence there was for these claims and never formally filed an accusation with SPAK. However, DP tried hard to exploit these allegations for political ends portraying the alleged involvement of the Prime Minister’s brother with a cocaine trafficking gang as symbolic of broader government corruption and cooperation with the underworld. In this the opposition was helped by the fact that for years SPAK remained silent on the issue, despite the Prime Minister repeatedly urging it to clarify the matter, emphasizing the need for truth. The announcement follows another recent denial of a high-profile accusation from Berisha, this time against Pandeli Majko.
Albanian Government approves regulations for medical cannabis cultivation
Published on January 10, 2025Why is this important: The regulatory framework marks a significant step in Albania’s efforts to establish a legal and tightly controlled medical cannabis industry. The goal is to attract investment while ensuring compliance with international standards for cultivation, security, and monitoring.
Albanian Government approves legislation to boost development of mountainous areas
Published on January 10, 2025Why is this important: The legislation aims to revitalize mountainous regions that have lagged economically compared to urban and coastal areas. It introduces tax and fiscal incentives for up to 500 beneficiaries who meet the law’s requirements, helping to attract investments, create jobs, and formalize land ownership for long-term users of these properties.
Kosovo and U.S. to finalize strategic dialogue
Published on January 10, 2025Why is this important: The development underscores the strength of the partnership between Kosovo and the United States, despite a visible chill that has set in relations between the two countries in recent years. For Kosovo, the Strategic Dialogue represents a significant step toward enhancing its international standing and securing American support across critical areas. The Strategic Dialogue is expected to address several key areas to strengthen Kosovo-U.S. relations and improve opportunities for Kosovo’s citizens.
Latest polls suggest Albanian Socialists poised for landslide victory in May 11 elections
Published on January 10, 2025Why is this important: The survey reflects a sharp decline in support for the opposition Democratic Party (DP), which is expected to shrink to 46 mandates, down from the 59 it secured in 2021, including those of allied parties. The results also highlight a dramatic shift in voter preferences, with smaller and newer political parties gaining traction at the expense of established opposition forces. These parties are projected to win 12 mandates, positioning them as key players in Albania’s evolving political landscape.
Albanian opposition leader’s daughter, called to testify over allegations against judge
Published on January 10, 2025Why is this important: The investigation into Malltezi’s accusations comes amid heightened debate over Albania’s justice system and its capacity to address politically sensitive claims. Judge Gjoka had previously ordered house arrest measures for Malltezi’s father, Sali Berisha, and her husband, Jamarbër Malltezi, as part of the high-profile “Partizani” corruption case. It is crucial for SPAK to thoroughly investigate these allegations and uncover the truth, especially given the history of politically motivated attacks and “character assassinations” used by powerful figures to pressure and intimidate the justice system over the years.
SPAK denies investigating Socialist MP Pandeli Majko after Berisha’s allegations
Published on January 10, 2025Why is this important: The clarification comes amid heightened political tension in Albania, where accusations of corruption are frequently weaponized. Berisha’s claims sparked questions about potential misuse of public funds for electoral purposes by one of SP’s most senior and popular figures. SPAK’s unusually fast reaction has put the concerns at rest but raises questions on why the Structure has not reacted with the same speed on the endless list of other allegations issued by Berisha and other opposition figures. On Monday, following his court mandated appearance before SPAK, Berisha addressed a protest organized by his supporters on SPAK’s doorstep where he issued a spew of very serious accusations against SPAK and other senior SP figures. There has been no reaction yet from SPAK.
SPAK opens investigation into alleged energy trading scandal
Published on January 8, 2025Why is this important: According to DP, the alleged scheme involved falsified data submitted to the Energy Regulatory Authority (ERE) and energy trading decisions that defied market logic, including the purchase of energy during surplus production periods. While the investigation for the moment focuses only on the energy distribution operator, SPAK’s response will be closely watched as a test of its capacity to impartially address claims of wrongdoing at the highest political levels. The case is also politically charged since Bardhi and Balluku are facing off as political coordinators in the second most important electoral district in Albania.