Albania opposition says parties’ registration overdue

TIRANA, Albania – Albania’s opposition, which is boycotting the June 18 national parliamentary election, has complained at the Electoral College that the registration of candidates from the political parties is overdue.

The main opposition has not registered for the vote, claiming the government will manipulate the ballot in which 15 political parties are running.

The opposition’s stance, announced on Wednesday, may block or create obstacles in the process.

The opposition has boycotted parliament since February, also blocking the justice reforms that Albania, a NATO member since 2009, should start before being able to launch full membership negotiations with the European Union.