A TERRORIST ACT IN LUSHNJE

A REAL THREAT TO THE NORMAL HOLDING OF THE ELECTIONS

A terrorist attack occurred in the morning of July 4 in Lushnja (central Albania) on the dwelling of a policeman by name Idris Shuli. As an explosive device blowed up in the balcony of the dwelling, the inhabitants faced another explosive at the entry of the house. There were three victims, among them a 12 years old girl who was seriously injured and hospitalized.

The AHC expresses high concern on this incident, which occurrs in the midst of the electoral campaign and the eve of the second round of the elections due to be held on July 8 in Lushnje. This act is likely to bring about insecurity during the campaign and the day of the elections as well.

The AHC does not prejudge the issue. First, it recommends to the electoral subjects no to hurry to issue uncontrolled statements accusing any of  the competing subjects. It is the duty of the competent organs to make the investigation of the case and to start the relevant procedures in order to clarify the motives of this act and to bring those implied before their responsibilities.

On the other hand, the AHC observes that the various electoral subjects have been raising their tones during the electoral campaign thus inflaming the atmosphere, what does not help the normal holding of the elections on July 8.

The AHC calls on the political forces to remain within the limits of an exchange of ideas and alternatives. Self-control and tolerance are needed as during the first round of the elections.

The AHC underlines the particular importance of these elections and every effort should be deployed by all to further improve the image of democracy in Albania and to make a new significant step towards the European standards.

05.07.2001