May 12 (SeeNews) - EU Commissioner Johannes Hahn said he is concerned about the decision of Albania's opposition not to run in the June 18 general elections, but stressed that the vote should be held nevertheless.
Albania's main opposition party, the Democratic Party (PD), did not register to take part in the elections as it claims the coalition government of prime minister Edi Rama is unable to organise a free and fair vote and a caretaker government should be appointed to do the job. PD and smaller opposition parties have been boycotting the parliament sessions since February, thus blocking the justice reform which is one of the conditions Albania should meet to open EU membership talks.
"I have to respect, but at the same time deeply regret this decision from a democratic point of view," Hahn said in a statement on Thursday. "Albanians request and deserve elections that provide a broad political offer and uphold electoral standards. However, the democratic process must continue, even if some decide to stay behind."
The elections will be assessed on their own merit, based on international standards, he added.
"I strongly condemn any announcements to call for "actions" that would undermine each citizen's right to vote and other fundamental freedoms. Such "actions" cannot be justified and are not compatible with European Union standards," Hahn also said.
Albania's opposition has called for May 13 a massive anti-government protest, which opposition leader Lulzim Basha has said will see the birth of what he called the "New Republic". Basha has also called for civil disobedience after the elections if they are held without the opposition.
"[...] it is a fundamental European value that political ideas and proposals – no matter whether you like them or not – are being discussed within the democratic institutions, notably the Albanian parliament," Hahn stressed.
"The fact that the by-elections in Kavaja could not take place is not a victory for anyone. It is a clear loss for democracy," he added.
Earlier this month the electoral commission cancelled the municipal elections in Kavaja after prime minister and Socialist Party (PS) leader Edi Rama asked the PS candidate to withdraw from the race citing concerns about stability in the country. His decision came after the opposition boycotted the vote and called a massive protest in the day of the elections.
"I have full confidence that the people of Albania will demand from their political leaders to demonstrate the restraint and democratic maturity expected in a country that aspires to be a Member of the EU. Let's be clear: Leaders will be held accountable if they try to derail the legitimate aspirations of the Albanian people for a better future," Hahn also said.