Tens of thousands of citizens have taken to the streets in one of the largest protests with a demand that unites everyone, the resignation of Edi Rama and his socialist government. But the only one speaking is Prime Minister Edi Rama and no one else from the Socialist Party. No one dares to speak, to express an opinion in relation to the citizen anger. Silence has become the common denominator of the socialists.
Only Rama speaks, the others keep their mouths shut. Even those who have shown critical stances at certain moments are silent today. It has been 12 days since the citizens have been in the square and not a single voice from the SP has been expressed, not even those who are known as the most critical voices.
Free debate and thought in the SP forums was one of the prides of this political force. For years and years, MPs, ministers, mayors or local branch leaders have spoken out openly, even when it was against the party’s number one.
Meanwhile, today, silence prevails in the ranks of the socialists. They are silent today about the hottest topic of political and public debate, the protests of tens of thousands of citizens. It seems that the only one who stands out is Blendi Gonxhja, Minister of Tourism in the “Rama” government. The demands must be heard, he says.
In today’s conditions, the socialists are either on the side of the president Edi Rama, or they keep their mouths shut due to the reactions they may face later. Why do today’s socialists seem so reserved? Perhaps some are silent out of obedience, or servility. Others out of personal considerations.
Some may have political interests, or careers to protect. It may also be a communication strategy. But the public perception is that the fear of going outside the leader’s line has become stronger than the need for debate. In these conditions, there are two readings. Either a party unified around the leader’s positions, or a party where debate no longer surfaces./NEWS24