Albania: Decriminalization law fails to enforce political integrity standards

The Central Election Commission (CEC) in Albania has closed integrity verification processes for 20 candidates without final decisions between 2021 and 2025, according to reports. This practice has allowed individuals with criminal records to participate in elections.

A notable case involves Kreshnik Gjon Gjonaj, a PSD candidate in Lezhë. While Gjonaj declared he was acquitted of a conflict in Italy, an investigation by the General Prosecutor’s Office revealed a final conviction in Italy for illegal drug transfer, resulting in a one-year suspended prison sentence and a 2,600 euro fine. The CEC closed his verification because he did not win a mandate, arguing the case had lost its object, despite the fact that he ran while legally prohibited.

State Election Commissioner Ilirian Celibashi stated that 90% of in-depth verifications have exceeded the legal 60-day deadline. The CEC noted that delays are not solely its responsibility, as the process involves the General Prosecutor’s Office, Civil Registry, Prisons, and foreign legal authorities. The lack of final decisions means individuals with criminal precedents are not barred from future elections.