U.S. Embassy Statement
In 50 days, on May 14, Albania will conduct nationwide municipal elections. We call upon all political parties and institutions to ensure that election activities are conducted in line with Albanian law and international standards.
Following the April 2021 parliamentary elections, ODIHR’s report described areas of continuing progress as well as shortcomings. In particular, there were credible reports of vote buying, pressure on voters, and misuse of state resources and personal data. The United States urges the government, parties, and state institutions to implement ODIHR’s recommendations.
As Ambassador Kim recently discussed with party leaders, political parties should ensure that campaigns and election activities are conducted in a fair, orderly, and transparent manner. Leaders must ensure their candidate lists meet the requirements of the law, as well as the expectations of Albanian citizens, for clean candidates of high integrity. President Biden’s Strategy on Countering Corruption identifies the unique threat corruption poses to democracy and our national security.
The United States strongly supports the demand of the Albanian people for a strong democracy. We urge all leaders and institutions to keep improving Albania’s electoral processes and keep Albania moving forward on its democratic path.