The session where the Assembly approved the new territorial reform closed after midnight amid tensions and strong clashes in the hall. With 85 votes in favor, the majority passed the new administrative division, which reduces the number of municipalities from 61 to 46. The vote was accompanied by chaotic scenes. Prime Minister Edi Rama arrived at the Assembly shortly before the decisive moment, while opposition MPs reacted by blocking the rostrum and throwing water bottles, eggs and other objects in his direction.
Tensions continued with the arrival of Belinda Balluku in the hall. The leader of the DP parliamentary group, Gazment Bardhi, threw a water bottle at her, while verbal clashes and noise dominated the minutes before the vote.
After the reform was approved, Rama left the hall smiling, accompanied by Interior Minister Ervin Demo and Parliament Speaker Niko Peleshi.
Despite reservations expressed earlier, Erion Braçe, Elisa Spiropali and Vullnet Sinaj ultimately voted in favor of territorial reform.
