Edi Rama Attends “Vajza Fest” in Selenicë, Jokes with Supreme Court Chief and Tirana Prefect

The fourth edition of “Vajza Fest” has placed the village of Vajzë in Selenicë at the center of cultural and tourism life, continuing an event that has now become a cherished tradition throughout the area.

The festival combined art, culture and tradition, with Prime Minister Edi Rama standing out among the senior state officials in attendance.

Rama was unexpectedly invited onto the stage and, having received no prior notice that he would be speaking, began his remarks with humor. He greeted those present and said he would try to “survive” the unexpected situation.

The Prime Minister thanked Supreme Court Chief Sokol Sadushi, who had invited him for the fourth consecutive year. Rama explained that this time he had decided not to decline, as four years were enough to become convinced that the idea was working. Referring also to the judge, whom he wished well in having her judgment become final, he said the time was right to join the others in witnessing the success of the initiative launched four years ago.

Rama then greeted former President Bamir Topi and Tirana Prefect Shkëlqim Hajdari. He joked that he did not understand the reason for Hajdari’s presence, unless he happened to be a friend of Vajzë.

He also joked about Olympic Committee President Fidel Ylli. The Prime Minister said that until arriving at the event, he had known Ylli to be from Skrapar, but humorously added that he, too, must certainly be a friend of Vajzë.

Rama thanked Selenicë Mayor Nertil Bello, whom he addressed as Nertili, for the promotion and joked about “bringing the sea to the top of the mountain,” along with its salt water.

He also greeted Minister for Local Government Ervin Demo, joking that he had gone there “to check how the Municipality of Selenicë operates.” Earlier today, the Selenicë Municipal Council voted against the government’s territorial reform project, which aims to merge Selenicë with the Municipality of Vlorë.

In his remarks, the Prime Minister also thanked the judge for her presentation, which he described as impressive from the outset. Continuing with his jokes, he also commented on her outfit, saying it was not typical of someone who had passed the vetting process.

In conclusion, Rama thanked the participants and wished them an enjoyable festival, as well as an even bigger and better event next year. He closed his remarks by jokingly emphasizing that what mattered was that those present in Vajzë had the judiciary on their side.