Altin Dumani, the head of Albania’s Special Prosecutor’s Office Against Corruption and Organized Crime, unveiled a new strategy aimed at preventing electoral crimes during a roundtable discussion organized by civil society in preparation for the parliamentary elections scheduled for May 11th.
Dumani stated, “This initiative is a constitutional and legal obligation, but I urge everyone to remain unafraid and to carry on with their daily lives, provided they are not breaking the law.”
He highlighted the connection between elections and the principles of rule of law, good governance, and the fight against corruption, noting that these elements are fundamental to the first group of negotiation chapters with the European Union.
Dumani reassured attendees that investigations will be conducted lawfully and without any political interference.
European Union Ambassador to Tirana, Silvio Gonzato, participated in the discussion and expressed support for the task force set up by SPAK to monitor the upcoming elections, calling it a positive step towards ensuring free and fair electoral processes.
Gonzato acknowledged the ongoing challenges of vote buying and voter intimidation in Albania, stating, “These issues remain a concern.”
He expressed his anticipation for further updates from relevant institutions regarding their initiatives and collaboration efforts. “As part of its EU membership negotiations, Albania has pledged to enhance its electoral process, which includes addressing all unresolved recommendations from ODIHR, particularly the need for law enforcement to effectively identify and investigate all allegations of electoral misconduct in a comprehensive, timely, and transparent manner,” Gonzato emphasized. (February 22)
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