The visit of the EU Commissioner for Enlargement, Marta Kos, to Albania has sparked debate and controversy in the country`s political scene ahead the elections. During her meetings with key national leaders, she not only avoided meeting with former Prime Minister Sali Berisha but also used certain symbolism in her communications that has raised questions about her impartiality ahead of the May 11 elections.
One of the most discussed moments was the gift of two jerseys to Prime Minister Edi Rama. One jersey bore de inscription “Team Europe,“ a clear symbol of Albania`s path towards EU membership. However, the second jersey, from the Italian football club Juventus, featured the number 11. This number concides with the date of the upcoming local elections in Albania, scheduled for May 11. Was this a mere coincidence or a coded message of support for Rama? Accordingly, Commissioner Kos made a statement that has resonated widely among political observers and the public. She stated:
“I am very sporty and we have also watched the European football champions and I have seen how fast you are with Nedim Bajrami, now I understand how fast, the goal you scored against Italy. Congratulations, because in fact football plays such a role in society. While basketball has played a vital role in your life, the gift for you is symbolic. That is why we gave you the number 11 on our team!“ – stated Kos.
While Rama answered:
“If when we enter the EU, I will give you a new and fresh prime minister who will climb to the highest peak. I am very touched by this, 11 is an excellent number.“
One one hand, the EU emphasized its support for democratic principles and the equal treatment of all political actors in Albania. On the other hand, the exclusion of Berisha from the meetings and the use of symbolism that can easily be interpreted as favouritism towards Rama contradicts these principals.
The absence of a meeting with Sali Berisha is another issue that cannot be overlooked. Despite being recognized as the chairman of the Democratic Party following the court ruling on the party`s leadership, Kos did not include him in her agenda. This move has been interpreted by his supporters as a clear message of isolation, aligning with the stance of the United States, which has designated his as “not grata.“
With the May 11 elections approaching, many questions arise: Was this a deliberate move by the Commissioner Kos to favour the ruling party? Or simply an innocent coincidence? In a politically charged and polarized climate, every action taken by international diplomats is closely scrutinized, and interpretations are inevitable.
If the EU aims to maintain a neutral stance in the electoral process, such ambiguous messages and selective meetings should be avoided. Otherwise, such gestures will only reinforce the perception of overt favouritism towards one side and undermine public trust in the impartiality partner in Albania`s domestic political affairs.
Written by our correspondent A.T.
