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It is neither the special committee nor even the permanent committee, but the entire parliament that votes on the changes. So it is a parliamentary process...
Two days after the government and the opposition sat down at the table to advance one of the most important political reforms, in an interview the acting head of the OSCE in Tirana, Clarisse Pastory, says that "the electorate" should not exclude any political factor.
Her message seems to go first to Prime Minister Edi Rama, who a few days ago warned that he will pass the reform without waiting for the consensus of the special commission. On the other hand, she gave a blow to Bardhi and Berisha, who want to remove Alibeaj from the special commission.
" Inclusive, point one, means broad-based, means everyone. All political parties, but not only political parties – to participate, have the opportunity to express their ideas, make suggestions and be heard. This means comprehensive. Second, yes, of course, I have no doubt that even Mr. White should be included as well. I think you are referring to the issue of leadership. For me, this is a secondary issue: the chairman presides, the chairman organizes the work of the committee, the chairman does not decide on the results himself. It is neither the special committee nor even the permanent committee, but the entire parliament that votes on the changes. So it's a parliamentary process, where everyone in parliament has a role ," she said.
For the largest group of democratic deputies led by Gazmend Bardhi and who have not yet decided whether they will participate in the work of the special commission for electoral reform because they are in civil disobedience to the socialist majority, the diplomat sees it as necessary their participation.
" Now we are at the stage when, I can finally say, substantive work will begin in the special commission, and I really hope that all participants will use this instrument, this commission, go there, participate, make suggestions active. I would be extremely disappointed if they did not participate and if they lost the opportunity to make their suggestions, which I am convinced are well thought out and well supported ", she said to " Vizion Plus ".
- Electoral reform has always been the product of discussions, debates, proposals between the majority and the opposition. Do you think that the bipartisan commission is the path that politics, the government should follow?
It is not the only model or the only role. I think it's a well-tested model in this country, but, as they say, it takes two to tango. Now is the time to find a system that meets the requirements of this country, at this time, for the next year 2025. I know there are problems about the leadership, who and what. To tell you the truth, I think this is a bit beyond debate. The package should be heard comprehensively and be as consensual as possible.
- If the government and the opposition have problems to make a good electoral reform, the role of the OSCE will be only technical or even political?
Our role is both. We are fully willing, if asked, to help with technical solutions – so if people ask how do we solve this, what do you recommend, what are the best practices, we help you. Also, we are fully ready and offer to facilitate political compromise, if requested. We never impose, but if we are asked to sit people down and try to compromise, we are more than willing to do so. But it is important to always remember: we are not actors, these are your elections, this is your electoral reform. Use us, call us - we're waiting for you - but don't think we'll solve everything for you.
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