With 85 votes in favor, Endri Shabani has officially been elected as Albania’s new Ombudsman, marking one of the most debated institutional appointments in recent years. The vote took place in the Albanian Parliament after a tense and highly polarized session that lasted nearly three hours. Although six candidates were initially qualified to compete for the position, the process ultimately became dominated by political disagreements, accusations of secret deals, and a dramatic walkout by opposition MPs just minutes before the final vote.
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| Endrit Shabani |
A Heated Parliamentary Session and Opposition Withdrawal
Throughout the parliamentary session, members of the opposition raised strong objections to proceeding with the vote. The Democratic Party (PD)—which had previously signed to endorse all six candidates but later withdrew its support—requested that the voting point be removed from the day’s agenda. The party argued that without a full political consensus, the vote would further damage the credibility of the Ombudsman’s office.
Despite these objections, the session continued. As the voting process approached, opposition deputies chose to leave the parliamentary hall, signaling their refusal to legitimize the procedure. This move was interpreted by many as both a political message and a protest against what they described as “a hidden agreement” within the majority ranks.
Allegations of a Secret Deal: The Core of the Debate
Much of the heated debate in Parliament focused on accusations directed at the ruling majority. Opposition MPs argued that the electoral process had been compromised by a hidden arrangement that favored Endri Shabani ahead of the vote. These accusations intensified when it became clear that more than half of the opposition MPs had already expressed early support for Shabani’s candidacy.
For many observers, this added complexity to the political narrative. On one hand, Shabani secured the numbers required under the Constitution; on the other, the process raised questions about transparency, political influence, and whether the appointment truly reflected a broad-based agreement or a pre-negotiated settlement.
Who Is Endri Shabani?
Endri Shabani is recognized in Albania for his academic background, civil society engagement, and public advocacy. His involvement in civic movements has built him a reputation as a figure independent from traditional political structures. This history of activism has garnered both support and criticism—support from those who see him as a reformist voice, and skepticism from others who question the political alliances that enabled his candidacy to gain momentum.
His appointment comes at a time when citizens increasingly demand stronger protection of human rights, greater government accountability, and more transparency from public institutions. As Ombudsman, Shabani will face significant expectations from both Albanian society and international partners monitoring the country’s democratic development.
Why This Election Matters for Albania
The institution of the Ombudsman, or “Avokati i Popullit,” plays a crucial role in the protection of citizens' rights and freedoms. It acts as an independent supervisor over public administration, ensuring that government bodies respect the law and do not violate fundamental rights.
Given Albania’s ongoing efforts toward EU integration, the credibility and independence of this institution are essential. A transparent and consensus-based appointment process is typically seen as a benchmark of democratic maturity. However, the political polarization surrounding Shabani’s election has highlighted persistent challenges:
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Lack of cross-party agreement on major institutional decisions
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Distrust between political camps even when candidates appear acceptable to both sides
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Public perception issues regarding political influence over independent bodies
Shabani’s tenure will likely be closely observed as a test of whether Albania can strengthen the autonomy and effectiveness of its oversight institutions.
Conclusion: A New Chapter with Many Questions
Endri Shabani’s election as Albania’s new Ombudsman closes a three-year institutional vacuum but opens a new chapter filled with expectations and scrutiny. While his academic and civic background positions him as a potentially reformist leader, the controversy surrounding his election underscores the deep political divides that continue to shape Albanian institutions.
Whether Shabani will succeed in reinforcing the Ombudsman’s role as a powerful and impartial defender of citizens’ rights remains to be seen. What is clear is that Albanian society—along with international observers—will be watching closely.