German analysis: What are the challenges of Edi Rama's strong mandate?

The so-called prime minister managed to get a fine result for the Socialists, the opposition Democratic Party appears to have been seriously lost. If the results so far are officially confirmed, Rama no longer needs a coalition partner. After four years of government, Albanians again gave him confidence, even with a considerable majority.

They seem to trust him as the man who will advance Albania. He's the leader who stands for power.

Rama style:

Rama succeeded in successfully installing this image through a combination of Albanian and European cosmopolitan folk dimensions. He can play beautifully and free both in the keyboard of his countrymen' homesickness and in that of European partners and donor countries. This style takes place and awakens expectations.

Now Rama must prove that Albania could be “sent towards Europe”. The tasks before him and his government are difficult: Many delays have occurred because in recent months and years parties blocked each other. Now Rama practically has the free hand to survive reforms. And that is necessary. Corruption in the country, drugs, poverty paralyses Albania. Thousands of people have packed to look for a chance in Europe because they don't see any prospects in Albania. Paradoxically they gave Rama a new chance to vote. The list of priorities of the new government is long but clear: Reform in justice, economic reform, the fight against nepotism, and the cannabis, as well as a policy imposed against religious extremism.

Be careful with statements to neighbors

These are also the EU's international community requirements for Albania, the EU candidate country by 2014. The EU, especially Germany, has massively supported Albania in these years. Despite some Balkan neighbours, Albania has not yet lost its radiation force. Rama still has not lost the trust of partners. Good promises Rama would have to make good use of in the months to come. First of all, it should focus on domestic problems. In past months Rama was tried several times with statements on the issues of the Albanian population in Macedonia and Kosovo, exasperating European partners. This is dangerous but it's explained.

Rama has much to do in his country. Albania has all chances of emerging from the corner of the problematic country and returning to an exemplary place in the Balkans. This requires a pragmatic policy based on the principles of the rule of law -- only thus will the economy slowly regenerate and people will see the future in their country.

 Low Voter Turnout

The votes took place surprisingly quietly and without major problems, which is worth noting, but recalling domestic political clashes and the week-long boycott of parliament. But voter turnout was low. Of course, Bajram's celebrations and hot temperatures played a role here. But there is much discontent with politics, there is much frustration among those who feel abandoned.

Finally, but not least, another reason is old - fashioned election lists, with the situation of those who have already passed away. Here the government must immediately establish order - because massive manipulations were carried out with voter records in the past years. Positive is according to election observers who did not have agrent manipulations!

Supportive Opposition Ready for Monitoring

While opposition parties now need to heal the wounds and prepare for a quick and powerful opposition policy. Again, the June 25th elections can be seen as a new goal. Democracy needs a constructive opposition, especially at this moment of important reforms in Albania, also an opposition to carry out the democratic function of control of the ruling Socialists. Even at this point, Albania's European capacity will be measured: if they manage to carry out painful reforms, whether dialogue with the opposition will work, but also between Prime Minister Rama and the new president, Ilir Meta, who now must demonstrate with the new division of roles, how democratic institutions will function, even if the former opponents stand at their helm.

Citizens of Albania would like to wish them success! DW