One week after the registration process for Albania’s diaspora to vote in the May 11 parliamentary elections began, the initiative has been marked by a surge in applications but also significant challenges.
According to data from the registration process, 35% of applications have been rejected by the Central Election Commission (CEC). The primary reason for rejection is incorrect declarations of residence addresses abroad, as reported by Oculus News.
Legal expert Franc Nuri explains: “The issue lies in the fact that the address provided in the CEC database does not match the supporting document that verifies the address. This discrepancy leads to rejection. Additionally, the connection between the individual’s declared address and their residence often poses complications.”
To avoid these errors when completing the electronic form, Albanians living abroad are required to upload not only their address but also a document proving their residency in the foreign country, according to TCH.
Nuri further elaborates: “For instance, a family member within a household may need to provide additional documents, as the residency card might only be issued in the name of the head of the household. To verify their residence, they need to attach a family certificate that confirms their relationship to the head of the household.”
The Central Election Commission is racing against the clock to manage the influx of applications from emigrants eager to participate in the May 11 elections.
Once an application is submitted through the electronic platform, CEC operators have five days to either approve or reject the request. If an application is denied, emigrants are allowed to resubmit after correcting any errors or providing the necessary documents.
This process highlights both the enthusiasm of the Albanian diaspora to engage in their country’s democratic process and the hurdles they face in meeting the registration requirements. As the May elections approach, the CEC faces mounting pressure to streamline the process and ensure as many citizens as possible can exercise their right to vote, regardless of their location.