Concerns about the fairness of the elections in Albania are growing, reports BGNES.

The European Union has questioned the democratic process in the country, which could also affect Tirana's path to membership.

European Commission Vice-President Kaya Kalas and Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos issued a statement saying the elections were marked by serious irregularities similar to those in 2001, when EU observers did not recognise the results.

At the same time, the EU delegation in Albania formally reacted to allegations of interference by Ambassador Silvio Gonzato in the OSCE/ODIHR report on the fairness and transparency of the elections. The ECJ has categorically denied these allegations as unfounded and undermining the legitimacy of international monitoring.

A report by German public television said that the Prime Minister and leader of the ruling party, Edi Rama, used unfair means to secure an absolute majority in Parliament. This threatens Albania's European course, citing problems with vote manipulation and a lack of transparency, the report added. | BGNES