Rama Takes a Jab at Selenica’s “Rebel” Mayor: Thank You for Telling Us the Sea Has Reached the Mountaintop

Yesterday, Prime Minister Edi Rama faced another “rebel” voice within the Socialist Party, Selenica Mayor Nertil Bellaj, following a meeting with the leaders of municipalities expected to be incorporated into larger administrative units.

The long-distance clash took place during the fourth edition of “Vajza Fest,” held in the village of Vajzë in Selenica. The event, which has become an important tradition for the area, combines culture, art, sports, heritage and traditions, promoting the region’s values and assets.

In his speech on the occasion, Mayor Nertil Bellaj said that the institution he leads had accomplished a great deal over the past four years, while leaving the decision on the municipality’s future to the prime minister.

Bellaj said that Selenica also has seawater—salt water—which, according to him, was bestowed upon it by nature. He stressed that just as Labëria is known for its glorious history, the municipality has worked over the past four years to become equally well known by elevating the area to another level in mountain and river tourism.

The mayor added that the work would continue, after which it would become clear how developments would unfold.

The mayor of Selenica has openly opposed merging the municipality with Vlora.

Following Bellaj’s statement, Rama responded ironically, focusing specifically on the claim that salt water was present in the mountains.

The prime minister greeted Nertil Bellaj and thanked him for the information that the sea, along with its salt water, had reached the mountaintop.

Rama also greeted the Minister of Local Government, Mr. Demo, who was present to inspect how the Municipality of Selenica operates.

A few days earlier, Rama launched a series of consultations on the new territorial reform. The proposal put forward by the Socialist Party would reduce the number of municipalities from the current 61 to 46.