The Democratic Party has sent a letter to the US State Department to oppose the May 11 elections. The letter was sent through the lobbying firm Continental Strategy and is dated May 16.
At the center of the allegations is the involvement of criminal groups in the electoral process. “In 10 of the country’s 12 regions, gangs known as the “Xhabafti” group and the “Bajri” clan are said to have acted on behalf of the Socialist Party, under direct coordination from the Prime Minister’s Office,” the report states.
The DP also alleges that millions of euros from the state budget were used for electoral purposes during the campaign. "Bonus payments were distributed to pensioners, licenses were granted for cannabis cultivation, and thousands of people were employed in the administration in exchange for votes. Furthermore, the ban on TikTok and the seizure of the media are mentioned as tools to suppress critical voices and manipulate public opinion," the report says.
1. Around 70 million euros distributed as bonuses to pensioners during the campaign.
2. 138 cannabis cultivation licenses granted in exchange for political loyalty.
3. Employing 10,000 people in the administration before the elections.
4. Fiscal amnesty of 200 million euros, 48 hours before voting day.
From the letter sent by the DP to the DASH
Another concern of the DP is the use of a network of patronage agents and the return of former Sigurimi agents to monitor voters and exert pressure.
"The Democratic Party demands an international investigation, the establishment of a technical government and support for free media. The report is also supported by the findings of the OSCE/ODIHR, which highlight the abuse of state resources, voter intimidation and the involvement of organized crime in the elections," the DP says.
1. International investigation into the elections.
2. Technical government to guarantee free and fair elections.
3. Media freedom and information pluralism.
4. Continuation of international monitoring and commitment to preserving democracy in Albania.
Requests to the international community (A2 Televizion)
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