Tirana, 18.03.2025 – The State Election Commissioner, Mr. Ilirjan Celibashi, held an official meeting today with the General Director of the State Police, Major Director Ilir Proda, at the premises of the Central Election Commission (CEC). This meeting aimed to strengthen institutional cooperation and discuss preparations for the upcoming elections, with a focus on security, transparency, and adherence to democratic standards.

The discussions centered on the role of the State Police in supporting a peaceful and credible electoral process. As the guarantor of public order and security, the State Police remains committed to ensuring that citizens can exercise their right to vote in a free and impartial environment.

A key point of the meeting was the cooperation between the State Police, the Central Election Commission, the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecution (SPAK), and the General Prosecution, within the framework of the Coordination Protocol for investigating and prosecuting electoral crimes. The parties reaffirmed their commitment to combating any attempt to undermine the integrity of the elections, ensuring that every case will be handled with seriousness and professionalism.

“The State Police is a crucial partner in guaranteeing free and fair elections. Close cooperation between our institutions is essential to creating a safe and calm environment for all voters,” stated Commissioner Celibashi.

For his part, the General Director of the State Police, Mr. Ilir Proda, confirmed that police structures are fully prepared to fulfill their duties with professionalism and complete neutrality. He emphasized that the police will be active not only in the physical security of the electoral process but also in identifying and addressing any violations of electoral law, in collaboration with judicial authorities.

“The State Police will strictly adhere to its legal obligations and will follow up on any reports of electoral crimes, working closely with the CEC and other institutions. No one can compromise the electoral process without facing legal consequences,” declared Proda.

During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on key issues such as:

• Preventing and prosecuting electoral crimes, including vote-buying, voter intimidation, and the misuse of state resources during the campaign.

• Strengthening cooperation between the Police, CEC, SPAK, and the General Prosecution to investigate and sanction any violations of electoral law.

• Implementing enhanced security measures during the pre-election period, election day, and vote counting, to prevent potential incidents.

• Training police structures on legal obligations and procedures related to the electoral process, including identifying and reporting illegal activities.

This meeting marks a significant step toward ensuring a transparent and secure electoral process, reinforcing the commitment of all institutions to uphold the integrity of the elections.