OSCE: ‘Active and engaged’ opposition vital to democracy

TIRANA, July 31 – The active participation of the opposition in politics is vital to democracy, the acting head of the OSCE Presence in Albania, Robert Wilton, said in a meeting this week with the new head of Albania’s opposition, Tirana Mayor Lulzim Basha.
Wilton met with Democratic Party Chairperson Lulzim Basha to congratulate him on his election at the helm of the party and discuss future plans of the party, the OSCE said in a statement.
“An active and engaged opposition is an essential part of any functioning democracy, and I am heartened by Chair Basha’s commitment to participation in and the promotion of the democratic institutions of Albania, as well as to the rights of its citizens,” Wilton said.
Wilton also highlighted lasting OSCE support to all participants in Albania’s democratic institutions and the presence’s commitment to maintaining co-operation with all the political actors.
“With the announcement of the new Cabinet of Ministers, and conclusion of the appeals period in the Electoral College, Albania moves to a new phase of this democratic process,” Wilton said.
He added he was encouraged by the “ambitious and positive” program offered by the new government.