The debate over the draft law affecting the map of municipalities once again turned into a sharp political clash in Parliament. After harsh remarks from Sali Berisha, who described Parliament as without morals and under the influence of mafia groups, the majority interpreted this as a sign that the opposition may be warning of another boycott of parliamentary life.
Draft law passes committee only with Socialist votes
After four hours of discussion in the Laws Committee, the Socialist version of the draft law “On the administrative-territorial division of local government units in the Republic of Albania” won approval in principle only with the votes of the majority.
According to the voting result, the eight Socialist members voted in favor, while the five Democratic representatives voted against. The draft law foresees reducing the number of municipalities from 61 to 46 and now moves to the plenary session on October 8.
Berisha calls for protest and sharply attacks Parliament
At the height of the debate, Sali Berisha invited citizens to take part in Thursday’s protest against this reform. At the same time, he used the parliamentary clash to level strong accusations over the way Parliament functions.
Berisha also focused on what he presented as the Socialists’ lack of interest in issues that, according to him, carry national weight, including developments related to former SHISH director Vlora Hyseni. He then sharpened his language toward the institution of Parliament, declaring that one “can no longer remain there” and that Parliament, in his version, has no moral right to exist.
Majority reads the statement as a signal for boycott
The head of the Socialist Party parliamentary group, Taulant Balla, interpreted this position as a warning of a possible opposition boycott. The majority voiced concern over a repeat of a scenario similar to that of 2019.
Balla asked the opposition not to follow this path, linking Berisha’s rhetoric to attacks on democratic institutions. However, at this stage, the opposition does not appear to have officially announced any formal decision to withdraw from parliamentary life.
Outside Parliament, protest continues alongside political tension
This Monday’s session unfolded in the same tense atmosphere that has accompanied recent parliamentary meetings. Once again, there was also a protest outside Parliament, with the participation of people who for several evenings have been gathering in front of the Prime Minister’s Office.
This overlap between the clash in the chamber and the protest in the street is pushing the debate over territorial reform toward an even more heated political climate, as the majority advances with its votes and the opposition takes its resistance into the field.
The latest confrontation showed that the debate over administrative-territorial division is not being confined to municipal boundaries, but is turning into a broader battle over the legitimacy of Parliament itself.
In this climate, political statements are being weighed not only for what they say, but also for the consequences they may produce for the functioning of institutions.