OSCE launches observation mission for Albanian election

The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Tuesday formally launched its election observation mission for Albania's June 18 parliamentary election.

"We are well aware that this process is being contested by a number of parliamentary parties, however, our duty is to ensure transparency," Peter Tejler, chief of OSCE Mission, told a press conference.

He explained that the mission deployed in Albania represented the same organization as the OSCE Presence in Tirana but were independent in their approaches, duties and also act independently of other OSCE institutions.

Meanwhile, he informed that a few days before the elections, short-term observers will also arrive in Tirana to monitor the election process.

Some 15 political parties are running for June 18 elections. The main opposition parties have not registered for the polls, saying that the current government could not guarantee the free vote.

Since Feb. 18, the Albanian opposition led by Democratic Party, has been boycotting the parliament. They also protested in front of Prime Minister's office, seeking the formation of a caretaker government.

Despite requests, PM Edi Rama has refused to step down and reconfirmed that general elections will be held as scheduled on June 18. Endit