In a surprising turn of events, Albania’s governing Socialist Party candidate Vangjel Tavo emerged victorious in the mayoral election in Himare, a town in the southwest. Tavo secured 58.62% of the votes, overshadowing his opponent Petraq Gjikuria. The election was triggered by the removal of the previous mayor, Fredi Beleri, on vote-buying charges, a move that has strained relations between Albania and Greece.
Himare, with a majority of ethnic Greeks, has been at the center of property disputes and allegations of bias in land distribution. The recent election saw a turnout of 37.61%, with concerns raised about expired identity cards preventing some residents from voting.
The tension between Tirana and Athens escalated with Greece threatening to block Albania’s EU membership bid. Despite the challenges, the voting process proceeded smoothly, highlighting the democratic process in action.
The outcome of this election is critical not just for Himare but also for the broader implications it carries for international relations in the region. The victory of Tavo signifies a new chapter in the town’s governance and sets the stage for future developments in the coastal region.
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