Law on universities passes among harsh debate; foes of law vow to continue fight

TIRANA, May 22 – Following a marathon plenary session, the law on universities passed amid harsh opposition from lawmakers as well as university rectors.
The approval of the law was postponed three times after the opposition claimed it violated the independence of universities.
The law passed with 70 votes of the governing majority, 27 against and 12 abstentions.
The opposition Socialists and the Socialist Movement for Integration strongly opposed many articles within the draft.
Tirana University rector Shezai Rrokaj said the law violates standards of autonomy for universities and said they would take the matter to the Constitutional Court. Also, the conference of rectors will convene to discuss further steps to oppose the new law.
Education Minister Genc Pollo and Prime Minister Sali Berisha said the law was vital.