Albanian Protestors Demand Recount in 2009 Elections
May 7, 2010
By: Benjamin Russell

Supporters of Albania’s Socialist Party have begun a hunger strike in Tirana, the country’s capital, to protest the 2009 election that they feel was illegitimate.  According to the BBC, around 200 protestors, including 22 Socialist Party deputies, set up tents in a public square and encouraged supporters to set up a “human barricade against the government." 

Socialist Party members and supporters have held regular protests since narrowly losing in last June’s parliamentary elections.  They accuse Prime Minister Sali Berisha's ruling coalition of “manipulating the results of the elections and have demanded a recount, which the government has refused,” according to the AFP.   

“The government has stolen the election. They should open the boxes and allow transparency. Otherwise they should go,” said Edi Rama, the Socialist leader and mayor of Tirana.  The Socialist Party has boycotted parliament for several months, bringing Albanian political life to a standstill.

Prime Minister Berisha maintains his coalition is open to a negotiated settlement with the Socialists.  “Our laws state there will be no recount unless a dispute has arisen during the counting process," he said, adding, “the stalemate is hurting Albania and this government is fully committed to engaging with the opposition to find a solution. But it takes two to tango.”

The political crisis has also raised questions about Albania’s proposed entry into the European Union (EU).  Albania applied for membership to the organization last year, but the EU's Enlargement Commissioner, Stefan Fule, says the deadlock risks damaging Albania's candidacy.

Sources:
BBC News – Election Row Spills into Albania’s Streets

AFP – Albania Opposition Protest Alleged Vote Fraud

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