Poliçan Residents Oppose Merger with Berat: The Reform Is Denigrating, Decision Should Be Made by Referendum

During the public hearing organized by the Municipality of Poliçan on the new administrative-territorial reform, the citizens present categorically opposed the proposal to merge this municipality with the Municipality of Berat. According to them, such a change would seriously harm the area’s future.

One of the residents described the reform as “destructive and denigrating,” recalling the consequences of the previous dissolution of municipalities, which, she said, led to the abandonment of villages. She spoke of the withdrawal of services, the impoverishment of areas and the deterioration of education, including the introduction of classes combining multiple grades.

The resident also addressed the prime minister, asking him to reflect immediately and “come to his senses” before a decision is made on this reform.

“Mr. Prime Minister, the citizens of Poliçan have done nothing shameful by setting fire to their membership cards; rather, they have said stop to the fire and volcano that were being ignited in the hearts of Albanians. We are not puppets, but we will fight for the future of our children. I say no to this denigrating reform,” she said.

A parent and youth coach in Poliçan also voiced his opposition to the project, describing it as “deadly for the city.” He called for residents to decide for themselves through a referendum.

“I am not leaving my homeland; I will raise my children here. I will not abandon the homeland of my parents, who have shed 40 years of sweat. Politics must ask us; there should be a referendum, and we should decide with our vote,” he declared.

Another citizen described the infringement of local autonomy as a “genocide of modern times,” carried out through administrative maneuvers. He warned that the merger could leave residents without a hospital and basic services.

The same resident called on the deputies from Berat County to go to Poliçan, face the citizens and account for the votes they received. “The deputies from our area must come here face-to-face, listen to the people’s demands because we gave them our votes. We will fight this battle legally and according to the rules to the very end, because we have the right to remain a municipality,” he said.