“Belsh should stand on its own”: Municipal council opposes merger with Elbasan, debate over the Socialists’ vote

The municipal council of Belsh voted against merging with Elbasan.

Seven Democratic Party councillors voted against, while ten Socialist Party councillors abstained.

Although the reform was opposed, debate broke out among the councillors over the Socialists’ abstention vote.

DP and SP councillors argued their reasons for voting, presenting arguments for why the municipality with significant tourism potential should remain and self-administer.

What stands out in Belsh is citizens’ indifference toward the Territorial Reform.

Public consultations were called twice, and both times they failed. The Belsh municipal council managed to gather the opinion of only a small number of citizens during the town meeting.