Just 24 hours after ultimatum-style language was used toward the opposition, the majority is trying to bring the discussion back to compromise on electoral reform. But with November 30 approaching and the special commission nearing the end of its mandate, it remains unclear whether there is real willingness for an agreement or only political management of the deadlock.
From pressure to a call for dialogue
Damian Gjiknuri, the Socialist co-chair of the Electoral Reform process, softened his tone and invited Democrats to return to the table, one day after Taulant Balla had publicly put pressure on the electoral law.
According to Gjiknuri’s statement, compromise is difficult because of the delay, but not impossible. He said it remains to be seen what package the other side will bring and how feasible it will be.
Why the Socialists are seeking urgent changes
The majority is rushing to intervene in the Electoral Code on the argument that the effects of the new territorial map must be reflected before the local elections.
According to the version presented by the Socialists, one of the most sensitive issues is related to the distribution of municipal council mandates. This is presented as a point that could call the legitimacy of the process into question if it is not addressed in time.
Clash over the system and the constitution
At a time when the reform has remained stalled, Sali Berisha has called for a change to the electoral system.
Facing that demand, the Socialist Party is pushing another package: constitutional changes, which according to its position also affect the number of deputies in parliament. This shows that the sides are not debating only the technical details of the code, but a package with broader political consequences.
The deadline narrowing political room for maneuver
November 30 is the date when the mandate of the special commission on electoral reform expires, significantly narrowing the space for real negotiations.
At this stage, the rhetoric of compromise still remains without a concrete agreement on the table. And the closer the deadline gets, the more doubts grow over whether the sides are seeking a solution or building their next alibis for failure.
The Socialist Party is signaling readiness for dialogue, but lost time and differences over core issues leave electoral reform on uncertain ground.
If an agreement is not reached quickly, November 30 could close not only the commission’s mandate, but also another effort left hanging between the majority and the opposition.