The US ambassador to Albania has come out with a reaction regarding the electoral campaign of April 25th, which just started a day ago.
The declaration published by the US ambassador among other things says that the US, as well as local and international authorities, will make all the efforts necessary to support these elections until their successful completion.
In her declaration, a strong message from the embassy is forwarded, emphasizing that the appropriate action will be taken against all those inciting or tolerating violence during these elections.
“As your friend and ally, the United States has made clear our expectations and hopes. We reiterate that we will hold leaders to account. In this regard, it should go without saying that those currently in office have the first and heaviest responsibility to act in the interests of the nation. We will take appropriate action in response to those who accept or promote violence, accept or promote violations of electoral laws and international standards, or attempt to otherwise undermine the integrity of and confidence in the electoral process and its results,” states ambassador Kim’s declaration.
The US also calls on “all parties, leaders and voters to engage fully and responsibly in the exercise of their rights and responsibilities”.
“We urge parties to present ideas and candidates that reflect respect for voters. We expect leaders to demonstrate leadership, including by ensuring their parties and candidates abide by electoral laws and international standards, clearly rejecting violence, and demonstrating that they would indeed be worthy of leading and representing Albania,” continues the declaration.
The Embassy also emphasizes that “[They] encourage voters to hold parties and candidates to account, consider their options, and vote for those parties and candidates who offer the best future for Albania – a future in partnership with the United States, one that propels Albania towards full membership in the European family as a strong and prosperous democracy.”
At the end of the declaration, an appeal is made for the press, saying that they should play their role responsibly and ethically, by asking the tough questions on behalf of the public and by demanding real answers from all candidates.
“We also expect civil society to play its important role throughout the electoral process. Throughout, we hope all parties, leaders, and voters will conduct themselves with dignity and, more importantly, respect for this most basic and important exercise of democracy. The people of Albania deserve no less,” emphasized the Embassy.
Yesterday, the Democratic party, the Socialist party and the SMI officially kicked off their campaigns for the April 25th elections.
Edi Rama asked for a third term, whereas Lulzim Basha asked for rotation by pledging to take Albania to the EU.
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE:
- EP approves progress-report on Western Balkans countries
- SP officially kicks off campaign, Rama: The 3rd term makes our reforms irrevocable
- DP campaign launch, Basha: My first task will be taking Albania to the EU
