Celebrations for the 100 years of independence are an occasion for Albanians to unite, and the trend of divisive politics at a time of national celebration must end.
TIRANA TIMES EDITORIAL
This upcoming Wednesday marks an important moment for Albania and Albanian – the 100th anniversary of the country’s independence and the creation of an Albanian state in modern times.
It is an occasion of joy for all Albanians, and this can be seen in every corner of the country as thousands of flags and signs dominate both public and private spaces.
As flags adorn hundred of windows and homes in what is clearly the largest showing of national pride since the fall of communism.
Albanians have come together to celebrate the country’s special anniversary. Politicians should do the same.
It is unfortunate that even this special occasion has not been left unmarred by Albania’s divisive politics. Many of the events organized are seen to have political coloring to them, and so far only one event related to independence celebrations – organized by the Embassy of Kosovo – has brought the prime minister and the opposition leader under the same roof.
While the Democratic Party-led government has been busy with several events catering to the right-of-center electorate, such as the return of the remains of King Zog or by proposing street name changes, the opposition has been busy criticizing everything from flags that apparently don’t meet strict constitutional rules to the type of posters the Democratic Party-run Tirana City Hall is placing on Tirana buildings. (They were ugly, apparently.) Both sides have often failed to send representatives at events organized by the other.
In all this, perhaps, the most divisive debate, was whether the ceremonies on Nov. 28 should be held in Tirana of Vlora, the southwestern city where the flag was originally raised, with the government preferring Tirana, and the opposition favoring Vlora. Ultimately, ceremonies are likely to take places in both cities on different dates, but they will be divided rather than united – based on political leanings.
The divisions don’t exist solely about the celebrations. Albania has likely lost the chance to get candidate status this year – the third failure in a row – as the country’s politicians failed to agree on reforms. Both the government and opposition leaders insist that Albania’s European integration is the primary goal and target for the country – and what better gift to celebrate Albania’s statehood than moving closer to European standards. Yet, they failed to agree on the reforms, placing political gain over there interests of the country.
It is unfortunate that such divisions keep on. Ultimately, they hurt the Albania. That’s why this newspaper believes that Albania’s marking of 100 years of independence is an occasion for all Albanians – but particularly those who hold the burden of leadership – to unite and place political divisions on important national issues aside.
These celebrations are unique and precious, and the trend of divisive politics must end.
