Tensions escalate before Albania’s May 11 elections as Democratic Party supporters intercept vehicles suspected of vote-buying by Socialist Party affiliates in Peshkopia. SPAK launches investigation after gunshot is fired during the incident.
Vote-buying operations across Albania are intensifying, with individuals allegedly linked to the Socialist Party accused of conducting organized efforts to manipulate the outcome of the May 11 elections.
Faced with what appears to be a strong shift in public support toward the Democratic Party (PD) and its allies, Socialist Party supporters are reportedly employing every method available to influence voters.
PD Candidates Intervene in Peshkopia
Earlier this evening, in the village of Pilafe in Peshkopia, PD supporters intercepted two vehicles suspected of distributing cash in exchange for votes. Present at the scene were PD candidate Xhemal Gjunkshi and the party’s political coordinator for the region, Xhelal Mziu.
Gunshot Fired, Suspects Flee the Scene
According to preliminary reports, one of the individuals involved fired a gunshot into the air while attempting to flee. Authorities were immediately notified, and an investigation is now underway.
Official Police Statement:
Around 20:25, candidate Xh.Gj. contacted the Operational Unit of the Dibër District Police, claiming that a person suspected of buying votes had been stopped in the village of Pilafe, Administrative Unit Tomin. He further alleged that during the incident, a person fired a shot while leaving the scene.
SPAK and Prosecutors Begin Investigation
A police investigation team was dispatched immediately, and under the direction of SPAK and the General Jurisdiction Prosecutor’s Office of Dibër, the case is being formally investigated.
This incident adds to a growing list of allegations and reports concerning electoral manipulation and attempted vote-buying across various regions of Albania as the election approaches.