Reflections following the first meeting of the Ad Hoc Committee on Electoral Reform
Tiranë, 15.03.2016. The Coalition for Free and Fair Elections and for Sustainable Democracy (CFFE) continues to actively monitor the latest developments on the initiation of the electoral reform in Albania.
Although it was not invited in the audience, CFFE welcomed the first meeting of the Ad Hoc Committee on Electoral Reform and the start of its work for a comprehensive reform. The principle of comprehensiveness has been continuously highlighted from domestic civil society actors and international partners, who expect commitment from members of the Committee and political parties alike to respect this principle throughout the process of electoral reform.
CFFE calls for the Ad Hoc Committee on Electoral Reform to engage as early as possible in consultation processes with civil society and other interested stakeholders and to take into consideration their recommendations for the necessary changes of the Electoral Code. The short period of three months available for the completion of the work of the Committee and the drafting of the electoral reform calls for the organization of these sessions in due time.
Appeal for Albanian legislators who hold in their hands the inception of the judiciary reform
The Coalition for Free and Fair Elections and for Sustainable Democracy (CFFESD) urges Albanian parliamentarians and political parties to consider the recommendations of the Venice Commission, the appeals of the international community, civil society and the expectations of Albanian citizens about the urgency of the adoption of the Law on Judiciary Reform. Judiciary Reform constitutes an absolute priority for Albania..
Press Release - Need for a Comprehensive Electoral Reform
Tirana, September 9, 2015, 10:00 hrs– The Coalition for Free and Fair Elections and Sustainable Democracy (CFFESD) presented the final report with findings, conclusions and recommendations deriving from the CFFESD observation of the Local Elections of June 21st, 2015.
"Overall, the Coalition for Free and Fair Elections and for Sustainable Democracy (CFFESD) assesses that while Election Day was peaceful and orderly, the pre and post-election periods featured a number of shortcomings in light of both national legislation and international standards for free and fair elections." – said Ms. Mirela Arqimandriti, CFFESD Team Leader.
"The work of Election Management Bodies (EMBs) was highly influenced and dependent upon the will of political parties. Another characteristic of the work of EMBs at all levels, particularly with the second and third tier commissions, was a lack of substantial transparency, as they failed to fully and timely inform the public on their meetings and publish decisions."– said Ms. Mirela Bogdani, CFFESD lawyer.
