Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama officially launched the Socialist Party’s election campaign today with a massive rally in Skënderbej Square, emphasizing that the May 11 elections are crucial for the country’s European future.
“On May 11, it’s either Albania in the European Union or the ‘magnificent swamp’ of flying carpet sellers,” Rama said, mocking the opposition.
He stressed that Albania faces a critical deadline to close EU accession negotiations and sign the membership agreement by 2027, warning that this opportunity must not be missed.
“This is the decade of our European destiny. The EU has opened the door and given us a clear timeline. By 2030, Albania will be a different reality, a member of the European family.”
Highlighting the importance of unity beyond party lines, Rama called on citizens to vote for “a country our children will inherit with dignity.”
“You either meet history or end up under Kujtim Gjuzi’s mustache — that’s the choice on May 11,” Rama added sarcastically.
The Prime Minister claimed that under the Socialist Party’s leadership, Albania has achieved true judicial independence for the first time:
“Since 1912, there has never been an individual with power investigated by an independent judiciary. Today, it is a reality.”
Rama also attacked the opposition and critical media, calling them a “swamp unchanged since 2013,” but maintained that the majority of Albanians are moving toward Europe.
“In 2030, even the opposition swamp might dry up. But the decision lies with the people. With us, Albania joins the EU. With them, we return to the mud of the past.”
He concluded by urging voters to choose stability, justice, and development:
“The vote on May 11 is not about a party. It’s about choosing between a European Albania or a dark past.”
