During its leadership meeting this Tuesday, the Socialist Party (SP) approved and officially announced its candidates for the partial local elections in six municipalities, scheduled for November 9. After the meeting, the party’s political leaders gave a brief statement to the press, revealing the official names.
Tirana – Ogerta Manastirliu
In the capital, Tirana, the Socialist Party has nominated Ogerta Manastirliu, currently a Member of Parliament and one of the most prominent figures in the ruling majority. Manastirliu has served for several years as Minister of Health and Social Protection, and most recently as Minister of Education and Sports. She has an extensive background in public administration, having started her career at the Tirana Municipality in 2004 and later leading the University Hospital Center “Mother Teresa” before entering active politics as a minister and MP.
Berat – Ervin Ceca
The SP candidate in Berat is Ervin Ceca, who currently serves as the acting mayor of the municipality. Ceca has long experience in local administration and assumed leadership of the city following the departure of the previous mayor, a former bank executive.
Cërrik – Florenc Doka
For Cërrik, the Socialist Party has nominated Florenc Doka, who also serves as the acting mayor. He has been involved in local administrative structures and took over the role after the post became vacant.
Mat – Altin Bojni
In Mat, the SP’s candidate is Altin Bojni, a professional in finance who has served for several months as the acting mayor. Coming from the local administrative structures, Bojni has been selected by the Socialist Party to seek a full mandate through the citizens’ vote.
Vlora – Brunilda Mersini
The Socialist Party’s candidate in Vlora is Brunilda Mersini, currently an SP MP representing the Vlora district. Before being elected to Parliament, Mersini directed the Vlora Regional Hospital, combining her healthcare background with her political engagement in the area where she is now running. This marks her first participation in a local government race.
Tepelena – Gramoz Sako
In Tepelena, the candidate is Gramoz Sako, who served for 11 years as the Commander of the Republic Guard, one of Albania’s top security institutions responsible for protecting high-ranking state officials. Sako resigned from this post in February 2024, and his candidacy for the Tepelena Municipality marks his entry into the field of local governance.
The partial local elections in these six municipalities come after the resignations or dismissals of previous mayors and will take place on November 9, 2025.
