Governing Coalition Member In Political Crisis

TIRANA, April 26 – The Christian Democratic party, a member of the governing coalition headed by the Democratic party of Prime Minister Sali Berisha, has been involved in a serious crisis that will likely result in other splits or a government reshuffle.
The Christian Democrats have been divided into groups. One of the groups is headed by its leader, Health Minister Nard Ndoka, while the other stands in opposition and continues to hold some government posts and positions in the parliament.
The crisis began when the Christian Democrats’ parliamentary group leader was removed from his post following the passing of the constitutional amendments package. Additionally, Deputy Foreign Minister Anton Gurakuqi came out against Ndoka, saying he should be removed as party leader.
In a counterattack, Ndoka said that such demands for his ouster were coming from people who are not members of the party.
More importantly, the Christian Democrats infighting may oblige premier Berisha to reshuffle the government, a move being strongly urged by many of his partners.