TIRANA, Nov 9 /ATA/ The State Election Commissioner, Ilirjan Celibashi, announced that the voting process in five municipalities across the country is proceeding smoothly and that there are no significant issues.
“With less than two hours remaining until the close of the voting process, which ends at 18:00, the information we have received from the field indicates that there have been no significant issues affecting the conduct of voting since the last update,” he stated.
He noted two incidents in Cërrik and Vlora, which, according to Commissioner Celibashi, are currently under investigation.
“Only two issues have been reported, one in Cërrik and one in Vlora. The case in Cërrik involves the conduct of an individual whose status—as an official observer or a private citizen—is currently being verified. A political party has alleged that this person was observing how voters cast their ballots, but the precise circumstances have not yet been confirmed,” stated the State Election Commissioner.
Meanwhile, at a polling center in Vlora, an exchange took place between the head of the voting center and an operator concerning identification procedures. “The Central Election Commission is currently reviewing this case to assess the conduct of the two officials involved,” stated Commissioner Celibashi.
In a media briefing, Celibashi noted that, regarding voter turnout, individuals over the age of 65 have the highest participation.
When asked whether there would be voters present at the polling center after closing time, Celibashi stated that the polling center commission must record and allow only those voters who are on the official list. “No one else will be permitted to vote after 18:00,” Celibashi said.
Regarding the low voter turnout among the 18–24 age group, Commissioner Celibashi noted that this trend is observed in other countries as well and is not attributable to the work of the Central Election Commission.
“We have engaged with various partners to promote youth participation. Political parties also have a responsibility to encourage young citizens to exercise their right to vote,” stated Celibashi.
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