The deputy of the Democratic Party, Jorida Tabaku, reacted today to the approval of the report on Albania in the Foreign Affairs Committee of the European Parliament (AFET).
The opposition lawmaker describes this report as “a real overview of the situation in the country and a moment of reflection for the European path”, since “Albania is at a crossroads”.
According to Tabak, the report states that:
“The country’s European path goes through free and fair elections, placing at the center the need for a comprehensive electoral reform and above all for real political will that guarantees democratic standards”.
Through a video message on social networks, Tabaku thanked the leaders of this process, including David McAllister, reporter Andreas Schieder and co-reporter Andrey Kovatchev, for the in-depth analysis of developments in Albania.
Another key element, according to her, is the functioning of institutions. Tabaku talks about the importance of the independence of the parliament and the Constitutional Court of Albania, as well as the implementation of its decisions.
“The role of the opposition and equality before the law are essential for a functioning democracy,” she said.
In her reaction, the DP MP also dwells on concerns about media freedom, stressing that “the report highlights the attacks on journalists, the lack of independence of the media and the use of strategic lawsuits (SLAPP) as an instrument of pressure against them”.
“AFET’s report emphasizes the quality of legislation, consultative processes and the need for wider involvement of actors in the integration process”, she said, describing the latter as “a process that should serve citizens and not political propaganda”.
In conclusion, she stated that the report should be read as a work plan for Albania and not as a daily communication instrument from the government.
“The country needs more than ever the trust and hope offered by the European integration process”, concludes the democratic deputy.
