Congratulations for the progress. Decriminalization, minus of entire process

Eduart Kukan: From what I have read so far, the elections were peaceful and there were no irregularities. The preliminary report of the OSCE/ODIHR says the electoral process had improvements and the Election Day had no incident. I want to congratulate the Albanian people for the elections and I want to value the improvement done for this process. Certainly, there were irregularities which will be included in the report and will be inveestigated for further improvements in the future. There was a polarization between the media and the political parties. The initial impression is that the elections were good. For this reason they will be valued as a good step for fulfilling the expectancies from Albania, before the progress report is published.

TCH: For you, Albania has passed the test for the negotiations?

Eduart Kukan: It would be very premature and irresponsible for me to give an opinion now. Let’s wait for the final report of the OSCE/ODHIR. These elections were important to pass the test for the EU negotiations, but not the only factor that would be taken in consideration by the Commission to see if they will recommend or not the membership talks.

TCH: Besides the reforms with the key priorities, these elections were considered important for the accession of Albania. Were the electoral campaign, the Election Day and the ballot counting process as expected?

Eduart Kukan: This is a preliminary declaration. I judge based on the reports received so far. My stance is that Albania did well with these local elections and I will be looking forward with optimism for the next repotr and recommendation. If the five key priorities are treated positively, the result of these local elections will not damage the image of Albania.

TCH: These elections were the first electoral test for the opposition leader, Lulzim Basha. How did he come out of these elections?

Eduart Kukan: I have heard that Mr.Basha was very active in the electoral campaign, with a model appearance, as I was told by many people from Albania. The results of these elections are not positive for him so far, but let us wait for the final result of the municipalities. He did his best as a leader.

TCH: What about decriminalization?

Eduart Kukan: There is room for improving this issue, because it has not beem implemented fully, as agreed in December. I see this as a minus for the entire process.

TCH: Which side did not implement it?

Eduart Kukan: The government.

Prepared by: Arta TOZAJ

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