The ruling Socialist Party is putting the finishing touches on preparations for its National Assembly, scheduled for Saturday at 10:30 a.m. at a resort in Lalzi Bay, according to sources within the party headquarters cited by Top Channel journalist Muhamed Veliu.

The meeting is expected to focus primarily on preparations for the May 9 local elections, including the ongoing protests, which have continued despite declining participation.

Prime Minister and Socialist Party leader Edi Rama is expected to outline the party’s electoral mobilization strategy, as well as the process for selecting Socialist candidates for mayoral races across the country.

Particular attention will be paid to the potential Socialist candidate for Tirana, Albania’s largest municipality, with questions remaining over what profile Rama considers best positioned to secure victory.

Party members are also awaiting Rama’s public position on Tirana Mayor Erion Veliaj, whose relationship with the prime minister has reportedly deteriorated following Veliaj’s transfer to Fier prison.

Another issue to watch is whether the agenda will include a motion submitted by Elisa Spiropali, calling for greater openness within the Socialist Party and proposing what she describes as a “New Agreement for Albania.”

The upcoming Assembly could also raise questions about possible government reshuffles. At the September 2023 Assembly, Rama used the occasion to announce changes affecting half of his cabinet.

Whether he will use the November 14 gathering to introduce major changes to his fourth government remains entirely at his discretion, as the administration faces mounting pressure over a range of public concerns and ongoing protests.

Rama has previously said he has taken note of the protesters’ demands and that steps are being taken to address them.