Will two ministers give up their posts to run for mayor?” Journalist: What to expect from the Socialist Party’s National Assembly

Journalist Muhamed Veliu has revealed some of the scenarios Prime Minister Edi Rama is expected to consider at the Socialist Party’s National Assembly, including potential candidates for mayor of Tirana and Shkodër and his position on the Erion Veliaj issue.

Speaking on Top Story, Veliu said one move Rama is considering is doubling the number of political leaders from 12 to 24, with the aim of strengthening the Socialist Party’s structures ahead of the upcoming elections. As for mayoral candidates, the journalist said Ervin Dema is being discussed for Tirana and Enea Karakaçi for Shkodër, where Karakaçi could face Kliti Hoti.

Veliu did not rule out the possibility of two ministers leaving the government cabinet to run for mayor. Another issue expected to draw the socialists’ attention is the position Edi Rama will take on Erion Veliaj. According to the journalist, Gogu’s position is known, but the prime minister has yet to state his own position directly on the matter. Veliu also said Veliaj could convey his views in a lengthy letter addressed to the National Assembly.

“At this assembly, Rama is expected to double the number of political leaders from 12 to 24. Rama believes he has found two suitable candidates for Tirana and Shkodër. We may also see two ministers give up their posts to run for mayor. Ervin Dema is being discussed for Tirana, and Enea Karakaçi could run in Shkodër in a contest against Kliti Hoti. Socialists are keen to see whether Rama will say anything about the issue with Veliaj. Gogu’s position is known, but we have yet to hear Rama’s view or where he stands. What Erion Veliaj would like to say to the Assembly may come in a lengthy letter. It remains to be seen whether there will be changes to the cabinet; everything is open. At 10:30 in Lalëz Bay, the sound of the waves may be joined by the sound of Rama’s decisions. It is still too early to talk about expulsions, but I think it would not be in Rama’s interest to escalate this open conflict with Veliaj. With the elections in mind, Rama wants to strengthen his ranks to win the May 9 elections,” Veliu said.