Berisha Drops More Than Half of Democratic Party Leadership Ahead of New Council Vote

Former Albanian Prime Minister and Democratic Party leader Sali Berisha has decided not to renominate more than half of the elected members who served on the party's presidency over the past four years, marking a significant reshuffle within the party's top leadership.

Of the 17 elected members of the Democratic Party's presidency, nine prominent figures—many of whom were among Berisha's earliest supporters during the "Foltore" movement and the party's "Reestablishment" campaign—will not be part of the newly elected leadership chosen by the National Council.

Among the most notable names excluded are former Speaker of Parliament Jozefina Topalli, as well as lawmakers Bardh Spahia, Eno Bozdo, and Ina Zhupa, all of whom will remain outside one of the Democratic Party's most influential decision-making bodies.

The members not renominated for the new presidency include:

  • Aldo Bumçi
  • Bardh Spahia
  • Eno Bozdo
  • Fatbardha Kadiu
  • Florion Mima
  • Ina Zhupa
  • Jozefina Topalli
  • Sorina Koti

The move signals one of the most significant leadership overhauls within Berisha's Democratic Party since he regained control of the party, as it prepares to establish a new governing structure following the National Council's vote.