Unsolicited advice for Albania's rising politicians

Recently, newly formed political parties set to participate in Albania's next parliamentary elections have faced heavy criticism. They are accused of having outdated mindsets and secret links to the two main parties. While this judgment may be unfair, there is some truth to the perception that their behavior mirrors the flaws of Albania’s established political leaders. A recent incident involving a physical altercation between Agron Shehaj, leader of one such new party, and Flamur Noka, the Democratic Party’s Secretary General, underscores this issue.

To begin with, I do not believe any of the new parties were created by the established Socialist or Democratic parties. Historically, major parties in Albania have not fostered new political entities. Instead, they preferred to co-opt smaller parties that struggled to survive in politics. Under the previous electoral system, smaller parties could align with major ones and have their candidates run under their banner, giving larger parties control over them. Now that this system has been abolished, the two main parties view smaller ones as threats. The Democratic Party, in particular, sees them as divisive elements within the opposition, which weakens its stance against the government.

Some of the criticism directed at the new parties, however, is absurd. Claims that they are linked to figures like George Soros or Sali Berisha reveal a shallow understanding. For example, Fatos Lubonja, a well-known intellectual, has earned his living through projects funded by Soros, yet remains allied with Berisha. This inconsistency shows that critics weaponize connections to Soros selectively, targeting only those who oppose Berisha.

Similarly, it’s illogical to accuse new leaders of being Berisha’s tools while overlooking their clashes with his allies. For instance, how can Agron Shehaj be accused of being Berisha’s tool when he was willing to physically confront Flamur Noka, one of Berisha’s most loyal—and, arguably, most comical—supporters? If anything, this line of criticism implies greater respect for those who continue to serve as Berisha’s tools than for those who have broken away from him.

Nonetheless, the new political parties in Albania face legitimate challenges. One key issue is their tendency to imitate the political style of established old leaders. Many of their leaders adopt populist rhetoric, spouting unrealistic promises and showing little respect for facts.

Take Agron Shehaj as an example. With his background as a businessman, one would expect a serious critique of government corruption and inefficiency. While he has fought some notable political battles, his criticism of the “Thumane-Kashar” highway as a case of significant corruption is misplaced. In reality, this project is a rare example of transparency and efficiency. Built in just two years by a private investor using bank funds—not government money—it stands out for its speed, quality, and cost-effectiveness compared to government-led road construction.

As someone from the business world, Shehaj had an opportunity to differentiate himself from politicians who reflexively label every government concession or tender as corrupt. Instead, by repeating this tired rhetoric, he risks exhausting public patience and undermining his own credibility.

Another problem is the new parties’ complaints about alleged alliances between the Socialist and Democratic parties. Not only is this claim untrue, but even if it were, it should not be their primary focus. By repeatedly telling voters that Berisha and Rama have formed a pact—one that keeps Berisha as opposition leader in exchange for Rama remaining prime minister—they only fuel voter disillusionment and despair, rather than offering hope or solutions.

The past affiliations of new political leaders should not always be held against them. Some were once aligned with major parties or worked for oligarchs, but their decision to break away indicates independence. Their real failure lies in imitating the populist rhetoric of older leaders, claiming they alone can save the country. This approach is counterproductive and alienates voters.

For example, Adriatik Lapaj, one of these leaders, often comes across as aggressive and combative. His raised voice and confrontational style do little to inspire confidence and instead evoke memories of Sali Berisha’s divisive politics of the 1990s. Albania doesn’t need more leaders who thrive on shouting matches and empty promises. If anything, the country has already had its fill of such figures.

What these new politicians must understand is that originality, a sense of realism, and composure are their strongest assets. They should avoid trying to outdo established leaders like Sali Berisha in populism or Edi Rama in showmanship. Those battles are unwinnable. Instead of imitating the old guard, they should focus on being authentic and innovative. The established leaders made their mark by forging their own paths, not by copying others. If the new politicians aspire to secure a place in Albania’s political history, they must create their own legacy—because as long as the originals are still around, there is no need for mere imitators.

The article initially appeared in Albanian titled: "Disa këshilla të pakërkuara për të rinjtë në politikë"