Albania: Opposition announces rally during Kavaje elections May 7

Event

Opposition parties in Albania have called on people nationwide to protest in Kavaje on Sunday, May 7, when municipal elections are scheduled to take place. The United Kingdom Foreign Office issued a security warning on May 5 urging caution due to the possibility of violence during the planned demonstrations, which organizers have said are to prevent “façade elections.” Protests in other cities cannot be ruled out.

Context

Albania is currently in the midst of a significant political crisis, with the May 7 election planned to replace the former mayor, who was ousted due to a criminal past. The opposition has denounced the upcoming vote, believing the party in power will manipulate the election by buying votes, and has demanded that the government form a caretaker cabinet to govern until the national parliamentary election is held as planned on June 18. The opposition has also been boycotting parliamentary sessions since early February 2017, accusing the ruling party of corruption and of mishandling the country’s poverty crisis.

Advice

Individuals in Albania are advised to anticipate increased security measures, to plan for heavy traffic congestion in Kavaje, and to avoid all political events, polling stations, and any demonstrations on or around May 7. Due to the underlying terrorist threat, report any suspicious objects or behavior to the local authorities.