Opposition leader Sali Berisha confirmed today that former President Ilir Meta will be part of the safe list of the Democratic Party and its coalition in the May 11 parliamentary elections.
According to Berisha, his presence will be an encouragement to all those who believe in an Albania without political prisoners.
"Ilir Meta will be, today the former president, former prime minister, former speaker of parliament, a political prisoner, he will be on the safe lists of the DP and the coalition, on the votes and the electoral result of the Freedom Party. And I am convinced that his presence on the lists is a great encouragement for all Albanians who believe that a free Albania does not exist with political prisoners and who value his 30-year contribution to politics. There are others who are dealing with negotiations, but I can confirm to you that he will be on the closed list", said Berisha.
Meanwhile, after the officialization of the opposition coalition, the Democratic Party is still working with allies to draft lists of candidates for MPs.
So far, only the Freedom Party has clarity, which will secure four seats on the list.
Ilir Meta will compete in the Fier Region, Tedi Blushi and Erisa Xhixho will seek votes in Tirana, while a safe spot will also be reserved for Edmond Haxhinasto in Elbasan.
Agron Duka's PAA will have a guaranteed mandate in Durrës.
Meanwhile, Mediu, Dule and Idrizi are still in negotiations to divide the district where they will place their name, although they will have their mandate secure.
The Republican leader prefers Tirana, but could move to Vlora, where he could also find his PBDNJ counterpart. Meanwhile, Idrizi wants to shield Mesila Doda in Tirana, while he himself prefers to run on an open list.
The final decision on the lists is expected to be made by the DP Presidency meeting on March 12, the day when the deadline for submitting candidates for MPs to the CEC expires.