Albania heads to the polls as Edi Rama pursues fourth term

Albanians are voting in a crucial general election where Prime Minister Edi Rama is aiming for a historic fourth term. The campaign has revolved around pledges for European Union membership and widespread concerns about political corruption.

Voting began at 7am local time on Sunday and will conclude at 7pm, with the final results expected the next day. Nearly 3.7 million citizens are eligible to vote, including a significant number from the diaspora who, for the first time, can vote by mail.

Rama, who has led the Socialist Party since 2013, has emphasized his vision of Albania joining the EU by 2030. At his final rally, he assured supporters that no time would be wasted in advancing this goal.

His main opponent is 80-year-old Sali Berisha, a former president and prime minister now leading the Democratic Party. Despite being barred from entering the US and UK due to alleged corruption claims he denies Berisha remains influential, promoting slogans like “Make Albania Great Again.”

Rama has come under fire for allegedly consolidating power within state institutions, a move critics say undermines democratic checks and balances. Recent corruption accusations have also shaken his administration, including the arrest of Tirana’s mayor and Rama ally, Erion Veliaj. Both deny wrongdoing.

The election reflects a long-standing rivalry between Rama and Berisha, who have dominated Albania’s political scene since communism ended in 1990. Many younger voters, however, feel disillusioned. One student expressed support for newer political voices, while another voiced a desire to leave the country permanently.

With a slim majority at stake, smaller parties could play a pivotal role in forming the next government. Campaigning was largely digital, although a TikTok ban over abuse and incitement led to allegations of censorship. The Democratic Party enlisted American strategist Chris LaCivita known for advising Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign to refine its messaging.