Former Democratic Party MP Ervin Salianji was in Shkodra today as part of his tour of several cities in the country, a tour that has caused tensions and "turbulations" within the party.
In his speech, Salianji directly responded to the message sent by Sali Berisha to the Democrats, calling on them not to attend his meetings. He also reacted to the accusations that the meeting in Shkodra was organized by Mayor Benet Beci.
According to Salianj, the message sent to the Democrats comes on behalf of the Democratic Party and was sent from a phone number that, according to him, is paid for by the DP funds. He stressed that the same number did not send any congratulations on religious holidays or messages against the government, but was only used to prevent meetings between Democrats.
Salianji denied any connection with Benet Beci, emphasizing that the latter was not a director appointed by him, but a leader appointed by the DP itself and held, according to him, in important institutions. He described Beci's case as an example of the mistakes of the Democratic Party, citing unfair appointments, nepotism and family ties, which according to him have led the DP to its current state. "From a director of the DP, today he is a mayor of the SP and few dare to mention him," said Salianji.
He then accused what he called the "salarymen" and "armchair workers" of the DP, saying that they refuse to see the packed halls and the real dissatisfaction that exists in the democratic base. According to him, meritocracy and the rules of the game are being thrown "in the trash can", while attempts at pressure through messages and threats do not scare him.
"I don't know pressure. Not even Edi Rama pressured me, not even in prison," declared Salianji, adding that those who appear soft towards the government and try to appear strong towards the democrats are wrong.
In closing, Salianji emphasized that political and moral strength does not come from salary or privileges, but from confrontation, endurance and sacrifice. He also quoted a personal message, saying that "better a few lost battles with friends, than victories with strangers."
The meeting in Shkodra took place as part of his tour with Democratic Party structures and supporters in various cities in the country.
