Albanians will vote in their next parliamentary elections on 11 May, President Bajram Begaj announced on Thursday.
The president chose the date after consultations with political parties. He stressed the extra time was needed to prepare for a key feature of the vote — allowing Albanians abroad to cast their ballots.
“This election’s main challenge is voting from abroad,” Begaj said, calling it “essential for democracy.”
A date that divides
Smaller opposition parties had pushed for 4 May, warning that a 9 May European summit in Tirana could give the government an edge. Begaj dismissed the claim, saying officials guaranteed the summit would follow the elections.
The ruling Socialist Party backed the May 11 date, arguing it allowed more time to finalise diaspora voting procedures.
Opposition snubs talks
The Democratic Party boycotted the discussions, accusing the government of fixing the date in advance. Calling the process a “sham,” the party now faces a tough task rallying its base ahead of polling day.
