Gonzato: A Call for an Inclusive Electoral Reform in Albania

The European Union Ambassador to Albania, Silvio Gonzato, stated that Albania needs to undertake a comprehensive electoral reform. Responding to journalists’ inquiries after an event in the city of Korça, Gonzato emphasized that this is the responsibility of the government and parliament.

Referring to the recommendations of the parliamentary election observation mission of May 11, which are expected to be released soon, Gonzato highlighted that there has also been a very clear statement from Brussels, which is a key element.

“As High Representative Kallas has said, it is now time for the Albanian government, as well as parliament, to adopt a comprehensive electoral reform that includes all past and present recommendations from OSCE-ODIHR,” declared the European Union ambassador in Tirana.

“The result places an extraordinary responsibility on the Albanian government to undertake and carry out this extensive reform, as it certainly has the numbers. On the other hand, there is also the expectation of the Albanians, given that Albania is on this path to becoming part of the EU,” said Gonzato.

Gonzato praised the work of the Central Election Commission for managing the electoral process, as well as for cooperating with the General Prosecutor’s Office and the Special Structure Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK).

“We have a report from OSCE/ODIHR that reflects how these elections have been. While issues such as the use of public resources are mentioned, the administration of the elections has been praised as such by the OSCE/ODIHR report, so I emphasize that this is something that needs to be addressed through a comprehensive reform in the future. I want to commend the Central Election Commission for the work they have done, the General Prosecutor’s Office, SPAK, which I would say has been an exemplary cooperation,” said Gonzato.

When asked about the opposition’s stance on not recognizing the elections, Gonzato said that any party that believes there have been irregularities should report them to the relevant authorities.

“This is how things should proceed. However, I hope that both parties have repeatedly emphasized their commitment to the membership process and Albania’s efforts to move towards the EU and will work genuinely in this direction,” said Gonzato. (May 27)