“Our observers reported that, overall, voting proceeded in an orderly manner in most polling stations. Nonetheless, in many locations, there was a lack of adherence to procedures, resulting in several negative assessments. Notably, incidents included intimidation of party observers, unauthorized interference in polling stations, and allegations of vote buying,” he stated during the press conference presenting the OSCE/ODIHR mission’s preliminary findings.

Zannier said that technical preparations for the elections were conducted efficiently, transparently and in accordance with the deadlines.
“We observed that the election preparations were efficient and well-managed, including the arrangements for out-of-country voting. We noted that the electoral administration operated transparently and in accordance with legal deadlines. The Commission also conducted voter information campaigns, targeting the general population, national minorities, voters with disabilities, and those living abroad. On election day, we observed that some voters were unfamiliar with the voting process and did not know how to vote in certain polling stations. We also observed the training of commissioners and noted that it could have been more consistent and effective,” Zannier stated.
Ambassador Zannier further emphasized that accessibility to polling stations for people with disabilities continues to be a significant issue. “Although our observation of the voting and counting process is ongoing, we observed that the transmission of data and results from polling stations using electronic systems was cancelled, and there were considerable delays in delivery of ballots from abroad,” he said.

According to him, the previous ODIHR recommendations remain unaddressed, and there has still been no comprehensive electoral reform.
“ODIHR is ready to contribute to resolving these outstanding issues,” stated Zannier.

The campaign, he continued, was generally low-key, but there were frequent attacks between the main political party leaders, especially online, reflecting the political environment which shows a high level of polarization.

“We have heard concerns about the misuse of state resources, which was observed by the monitors in many cases, including during large events where major programs were announced just a day before the election day or the waiving of fines. These practices gave an unfair advantage to the ruling party, leading to a level playing field,” said the head of the mission.

Speaking about the campaign on social media, Ambassador Zannier stated that it remains unregulated.

“Political parties signed a code of ethics, promoting an ethical digital campaign; however, amplified viewpoints on social media were noticeable, and there was no authority to monitor manipulative online content. Some political parties complained to the mission about the government’s ban for TikTok two months before the elections. They argued that this negatively impacted their campaign,” emphasized the ambassador.

Ambassador Zannier noted that campaign financing continues to pose a major challenge due to the shortcomings of the existing legal framework.

“Since 2020, there have been only limited changes to the campaign finance regulations. Key ODIHR recommendations in this area remain unaddressed, and this continues to impact the overall transparency of campaign financing. On a positive note, the Central Election Commission disbursed public funds in a timely manner, allowing candidates to make use of them when needed,” stated the ambassador.

Regarding the media, Ambassador Zannier noted that the two main political parties were given twice as much airtime as other parties and that they dominated the news coverage.
He stated that the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights will stay in Albania until 22 May to monitor the handling of appeals and complaints. Zannier added that the final report will be released in the coming months.
He commended the involvement of the Albanian people in multiple aspects of the electoral process, highlighting the active participation of voters both domestically and abroad.
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