The ongoing political turmoil in Albania has reached a critical juncture, with the German Christian Democratic Union (CDU) condemning the violent protests led by the Democratic Party on Monday. CDU representatives firmly hold Sali Berisha, the leader of the Democratic Party, accountable for instigating these violent demonstrations, asserting that his actions are wholly unacceptable for a country aspiring to join the European Union.
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| Gunther Krichbaum on a visit to Tirana where he meets the leaders of the Albanian Democratic Party, October 23, 2023 |
Gunther Krichbaum, the CDU/CSU spokesperson for European affairs in the Bundestag, emphasized that violence has no place in a nation striving for EU membership. He stated, "Violent acts are entirely unacceptable and unworthy of a candidate for EU membership. If Berisha still holds any credibility, he must immediately distance himself from this type of protest. Unfortunately, there are doubts that Berisha is inciting these protests."
In a pointed statement directed at Berisha, the CDU reiterated its full support for justice institutions, particularly the Special Prosecution Office Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK), stressing that Berisha should have been detained in any EU member state. "Berisha should not present himself as a victim of an allegedly politically motivated process. SPAK, which placed him under house arrest, is beyond any doubt. Ultimately, SPAK was established under the pressure of the European Union. Given the seriousness of the charges, Berisha should have been placed in pre-trial detention in any EU state, rather than being comfortable in house arrest," Krichbaum asserted according local media.
The CDU spokesperson further elaborated, "Violent acts are completely unacceptable and entirely unworthy of a candidate for EU membership. If Berisha still has a shred of credibility, he must immediately distance himself from such protests and exclude the perpetrators from the party. Unfortunately, there is doubt that Berisha is inciting these protests. In the past, the Democratic Party has been a party that upheld European values. Sadly, it has drifted further away from these values."
Rightfully, the European People's Party (EPP) and the CDU/CSU parliamentary group in the Bundestag maintain their distance from this opposition party and especially from its chairman, Sali Berisha, who is currently under house arrest. Krichbaum added, "This is why the coming days will be crucial in determining whether the party has the strength to renew itself. It needs an honest figure at the helm. Just as a democracy requires a strong government, it also needs a strong opposition. The effort to present the best concepts and arguments must always occur without violence."
As Albania stands at a crossroads in its European integration aspirations, the actions and rhetoric of its political leaders, particularly Berisha, will significantly influence the nation’s future. The call for a credible and responsible opposition is essential for Albania to regain its footing on the path to EU membership.