Albanian President Bajram Begaj’s recent decision to decree local elections in Tirana has sparked heated political debate, but during an appearance on the popular talk show Top Story, he provided detailed legal justifications for his move.
According to Begaj, the presidential decree was grounded firmly in constitutional obligations. He argued that the head of state has both a duty and responsibility to guarantee that citizens’ democratic rights are upheld — particularly the right to vote and to be represented at the local level.
Begaj highlighted several points in his legal reasoning:
- Constitutional Duty – The Constitution explicitly grants the President the authority to set election dates. Failing to do so, he said, would amount to denying citizens their rights.
- Continuity of Institutions – The functioning of municipal councils and local governance cannot be left in a legal vacuum. By decreeing elections, the President ensures institutional stability.
- Political Neutrality – Begaj emphasized that his role is not to engage in party politics but to safeguard the framework of democracy itself. He underlined that his decision was guided solely by the law, not by political pressure.
The President also addressed critics, reminding them that the Constitutional Court and electoral bodies are the ultimate arbiters if any side feels the decree violates the law. Until then, he stressed, the decree remains valid and binding.
This rare in-depth explanation on Top Story offers a clearer understanding of how legal interpretation shapes Albania’s political life. Begaj’s arguments underline the delicate balance between politics and constitutional law, especially in moments of heightened tension.
