Opposition leader teams up with jailed ally in long shot to win elections

January 11, 2025 – Sali Berisha, leader of Albania's opposition Democratic Party (DP), has announced that he'll be forging a coalition with Ilir Meta, the president of the Freedom Party, as the country prepares for the May 11 general election. Despite Meta's imprisonment, Berisha is moving forward with the alliance, which he believes will strengthen the opposition’s position.

Speaking from Pogradec, Berisha expressed confidence in the coalition, stating, "We are confidently heading towards victory. Our position will be determined by negotiations, it will be our turn." 

Berisha also took the opportunity to criticize the government’s urban development policies, particularly their impact on local cities. "To imagine building towers that block the city’s view means to reconfigure it... it shows no respect for this city and its residents," he said.

In his speech, Berisha outlined his party’s focus on addressing economic concerns, proposing a plan to increase the minimum wage and pensions if the opposition prevails in the upcoming elections. However, the party remains behind in public opinion and will face an uphill battle in the race against the incumbent government.