The Union of Albanian Journalists has reacted to a warning by Prime Minister Edi Rama regarding the possible closure of Albania’s public broadcaster, Radio Television of Albania (RTSH), saying it is firmly opposed to shutting down the country’s public media.

In a statement, the union said it will issue an official position on Monday regarding the prime minister’s proposal or project, stressing its categorical opposition to the closure of public media in the Republic of Albania.

At the same time, the Union of Albanian Journalists published a petition signed by RTSH employees, calling on political authorities to restore real autonomy to the public broadcaster and allow it to be rebuilt from within.

The petition, titled “For Real Autonomy and Free Elections at RTSH,” argues that although RTSH is defined by law and statute as an independent public institution, it has been subject to continuous political interference for more than three decades, mainly through politically driven appointments.

The petition urges institutions and the public to support measures that would ensure genuine independence and free governance of Albania’s public broadcaster.