The Parliament of Albania holds today the first session of its 11th legislature, divided into two separate meetings. The morning meeting is ceremonial, traditionally chaired by the oldest MP.
This role was expected to fall to Sali Berisha, but he refused to attend, declining to sit alongside MP Tritan Shehu. As a result, the session is expected to be opened by Socialist MP Vasil Llajo.
During this constituent session, the only formal decision will be the establishment of the commission to verify MPs’ mandates.
The second session will take place tomorrow afternoon, when MPs are expected to take their oath and hold a secret ballot for the new Speaker of Parliament. Prime Minister Edi Rama has nominated Defence Minister Niko Peleshi for the post of Speaker, with Klodiana Spahiu as Deputy Speaker from the Socialist Party. The opposition, meanwhile, has reconfirmed the candidacy of Agron Gjekmarkaj for Deputy Speaker.
According to the Constitution, at the start of a new legislature, the President of the Republic appoints the Prime Minister, based on the proposal of the political force holding a parliamentary majority. Within 10 days, the Prime Minister must present the political program and the new cabinet for a confidence vote in Parliament.
