May elections were well-administered, but process characterized by polarization, ODIHR report states

The Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) has released its observation mission final report on Friday following the May 14 local government elections held in Albania.

The report states that the May 2023 local elections in Albania were generally well-administered, competitive and held with the participation of the key political forces, but the process was characterized by continued polarization between the main political parties and deep division within the opposition.

According to the report, contestants could campaign freely, but cases of misuse of state resources at central and local levels, claims of pressure on public-sector workers and voters, and allegations of vote buying were of concern.

The report also states that the election day was generally peaceful, but the process was negatively affected by numerous cases of party interference as well as technical and procedural problems, widespread group voting and problems with the secrecy of the vote.