Poliçan Protests Against Territorial Reform: Erjon Zylyftari Resigns, Socialist Party Membership Cards Burned and Petition Signed

Poliçan residents took to the streets this evening to protest against the Territorial Reform, which removes their municipality from the map. Gathered outside the town’s cinema, they held signs bearing messages such as: “Hands off Poliçan,” “Do not kill our future,” “May Poliçan’s votes bring you no good,” and “Sheep-like MPs, do not vote for the reform.” In unison, residents called on the government not to abolish the Municipality of Poliçan, which they have supported with their votes over the years, stressing that their future and that of their children is at risk.

At the height of the protest, the head of the Socialist Party in Poliçan, Erjon Zylyftari, publicly resigned, calling the government’s decision an injustice and a great disgrace. In a show of outrage, residents burned their Socialist Party membership cards in the middle of the square. All participants also signed the petition opposing the change in the municipality’s status.