Berisha accuses Majko of vote rigging, former PM responds with composure

Tirana, January 6, 2025 – Albanian opposition leader Sali Berisha has accused former Prime Minister Pandeli Majko of electoral wrongdoing, sparking a heated exchange between the political rivals.

Speaking during a press conference, Berisha alleged that Majko, a senior figure in the ruling Socialist Party, was involved in a scheme to manipulate votes in the northern region of Kukës. He claimed Majko was recorded meeting with individuals tied to drug and arms trafficking to discuss funding for vote-buying.

“Pandeli Majko is a major electoral criminal,” Berisha said. “He worked with others to inflate project costs, funnelling €300,000 to buy votes in Tropoja, with additional funds sent to other regions like Durrës and Kukës.”

Berisha claimed that intelligence gathered by the country’s security agency SHISH was handed over to Albania's anti-corruption prosecutors at SPAK but alleged that political interference had blocked further investigation.

Majko, who led Albania during two terms as prime minister, dismissed the accusations in a social media post. Responding with sarcasm, he said, “It was a pleasure to hear you insult me! That shows I’m on the right track. The worst theft is the theft of the future.”

He accused Berisha of misleading the public with false claims. “Confusion is control. That’s Berisha’s truth,” Majko wrote, denying any involvement in wrongdoing.

Majko’s comments come as he takes on a new political role in Tirana, following his removal as the Socialist Party’s political coordinator in Kukës. The reshuffle is part of a broader effort by the Socialists to strengthen their position ahead of elections.