Braçe on His Candidacy in Tirana: Even If Rama Sticks with Manastirliu, I Will Not Withdraw; Internal Elections Are a Statutory Obligation

Socialist MP Erion Braçe said on Wednesday, during a conversation with Erla Mëhilli on the “Now” program, that he remains determined to run for mayor of Tirana. Commenting on developments within the Socialist Party and the overall political situation in the country, he made it clear that he would continue the battle he has begun.

Asked by Mëhilli whether he was still committed to his plan to run in the capital, Braçe said the issue had not received attention because of the algorithm and the focus on the protest. He stressed that he had given no indication that he was withdrawing and that he was not seeking to be appointed, receive favors, gain a career opportunity, or be rewarded for the work he had done so far.

According to Braçe, his demand is for the candidate to be selected through a process in which Socialists make the decision. The MP said he would seek their votes, as well as the support of citizens considered undecided. He is calling for an open and democratic contest that will produce the candidate who will take Tirana’s transformation to a new stage and standard.

When the host asked how he would proceed if Rama did not take his proposal into consideration, Braçe replied that the battle would continue. He emphasized that holding internal elections is a statutory obligation and that the race for Tirana would help strengthen democracy within the party.

Braçe said he was ready to compete against Ogerta, Arbër, or any other candidate, adding that the Socialist Party has no reason to take a step backward.