The leader of the Democratic Party, Sali Berisha, shared an end-of-year video message this Wednesday, addressing the New Year while issuing sharp criticism of the government and describing 2026 as a year of hope.

“2025 was a year that Albanians never deserved,” Berisha said, adding that citizens are “the lowest-paid in Europe,” while government officials are “the wealthiest in Europe.” He criticized the country’s economic situation and highlighted the social disparities between citizens and those in power.

“2025 was the year of the complete agony of Albanian democracy,” Berisha stated, describing the past year as a period marked by institutional and democratic crises.

“The narco-dictator hijacked the vote of Albanians and built a majority of crime,” Berisha said, accusing the government of violating the electoral process and favoring criminal groups.

“2025 was the year in which drug cartels directly linked to the Albanian government became the masters of the cocaine market in Europe,” he added, warning about the growing influence of organized crime and its alleged ties to the government.

Looking ahead, Berisha said, “2026 is the year of great hope… Albanians will unite as never before to hold the funeral of the criminal organization called Rilindja, led by Edi Rama.”

He called for civic unity and the restoration of free elections and democracy.

Berisha concluded his message with New Year wishes:

“Happy New Year 2026 to all Albanians, wherever you may be.”