The acting leader of the Democratic Party declared on Wednesday that he disagrees with holding the first round of the presidential election on May 10, a move that goes against the recommendation of the ruling majority.

Instead, he sought for May 10 to be the date when the entire process commences.

“I do not agree with having the first round of voting for the president on May 10. Initially, the entire process for the selection of the president must be completely at the service of the public. It is a process that takes place inside the parliament, but it must serve the people. I suggest having the process roll out on that date. The Constitution says it must begin at least on May 24”, Alibeaj said.

“The time distance from one round to another should be at least 7 days, which means it can be shorter than that. I would like to make a proposal in order to abide by the Constitution. All rounds must have a time distance of 7 days”, he added.

On Wednesday, Parliament Speaker Lindita Nikolla convened a conference with the chairs of the parliamentary committees to set out the date for the selection of the new head of state.

The Socialist Party proposed May 10 for the first round of voting, but if any of the candidates fail to receive 84 votes, a second-round will take place no later than 7 days after.

Parties can vote on a name that they both agree to until a third round, or else the ruling majority has the right to pass the candidate it wants with 71 votes in favor.

The entire procedure is expected to conclude within this month.