Political Turmoil in Himara: Albanian-Greek Relations Strained Over Mayoral Vote

Himara, Albania, is voting for a new mayor after Fredis Beleris, an ethnic Greek and former mayor, was imprisoned on vote-buying charges. His conviction strained relations between Albania and Greece, impacting Albania's EU aspirations. Both current candidates focus on property rights amidst tourism-driven land disputes.

In the southwestern town of Himara, Albania, residents are heading to the polls to elect a new mayor after their previous choice, Fredis Beleris, was ousted under controversial circumstances. Beleris, a member of the ethnic Greek minority, was stripped of his title and imprisoned on charges of vote-buying, a case he and Greece allege was politically driven.

According to the Central Election Commission, early turnout showed less than 7% of about 23,000 eligible voters casting their ballots in the first two hours. Despite minor technical issues reported at some polling stations, the process continued smoothly. Both rival candidates have taken measures to bring Albanian immigrants home to vote, a common practice in the Balkan nation.

The election has further escalated tensions between Tirana and Athens, particularly affecting Albania's bid to join the European Union. Beleris' case, his conviction, and subsequent property disputes related to the burgeoning tourism sector have been central themes in the campaigns of both candidates. Vangiel Tavo and Petraq Gjikuria, both ethnic Greeks, have focused on resolving long-standing property rights issues.

(With inputs from agencies.)