Albanian Opposition Leader Rejects Anti-Corruption Commission as Propaganda

Gazment Bardhi, the head of the Democratic Party Parliamentary Group, has announced that his party will not support the establishment of an anti-corruption commission proposed by the ruling Socialist Party of Prime Minister Edi Rama.

Bardhi accused the government of lacking genuine commitment to fighting corruption and using the initiative as mere propaganda. He stated, "What Rama is doing, is only propaganda. We will not be part of his propaganda. We are serious on the anti-corruption case. We are really serious to fight corruption."

The establishment of an anti-corruption commission is essential for Albania's efforts to combat corruption and meet European Union standards. If the commission is not established or is ineffective, it could hinder Albania's progress towards EU membership and undermine trust in the government.

The decision was made following a meeting of the Democratic Party Parliamentary Group. Bardhi claimed that the ruling party did not consult with the opposition on the matter, deepening his skepticism about the government's intentions.

The proposed commission, expected to be voted on soon in the Assembly, would consist of 11 members—six from the parliamentary majority and five from the opposition. Its main purpose is to coordinate a reform process aimed at improving governance, fighting corruption, and strengthening law enforcement.

Bardhi criticized the lack of transparency and consultation, stating, "We know what this committee has, it is only in Rama's head, he tells the opposition what I have in my head, you should be per part of it." He emphasized that the opposition would not participate in what he described as a facade.

The opposition leader also highlighted the importance of free and fair elections in combating corruption, arguing that without them, any anti-corruption efforts would be ineffective. "Without free and fair elections, we cannot fight corruption, and if they are serious, they should start the fight against electoral corruption," Bardhi stated.

The establishment of the anti-corruption commission is seen as a key step in Albania's efforts to combat corruption and meet European Union standards. However, the opposition's refusal to support the commission raises concerns about its effectiveness and the government's commitment to genuine reform.

Political tensions in Albania continue to be marked by accusations and counter-accusations, and the effectiveness of any anti-corruption measures remains uncertain. The opposition's stance highlights the deep divisions and lack of trust between the ruling party and its opponents.

The coming days will reveal whether the ruling party can proceed with the commission without the opposition's support or if further negotiations will be necessary to achieve a consensus.

Key Takeaways

• Albania's Democratic Party won't support anti-corruption commission proposed by ruling Socialist Party.
• Opposition leader Gazment Bardhi accuses government of lacking genuine commitment to fighting corruption.
• Establishment of commission is essential for Albania's EU membership and combating corruption.
• Bardhi demands free and fair elections to effectively fight corruption.
• Opposition's refusal to support commission raises concerns about its effectiveness and government's commitment to reform.