Ilir Meta Criticized by Freedom Party Members for Dictatorial Behavior and Promoting Low-Engagement Individuals

Ilir Meta, the leader of Albania's Freedom Party, has come under fire from his own party members for alleged dictatorial behavior and promoting individuals who receive low social media engagement. During a meeting with party delegates in Durrës, Meta encountered criticism and accusations of arrogance within the opposition.

Meta stated that he has heard from people who have had his support for promotion, but they do not even have 20 likes on their posts, while each should have 3-4 thousand citizens to communicate as Meta does. He expressed concern about the arrogance in the opposition and the need for people with character to represent the party.

Endrit Braimllari, a former deputy chairman of the Freedom Party, resigned amid tensions within the party. Braimllari stated that he wanted to de-escalate the situation and focus the party's energy against the government, not within the party. He denied that Meta had asked him to resign and refuted accusations of cooperating with government officials.

Braimllari acknowledged that Meta may be right about the party's organization, but said that political responsibility is not limited to one person. He emphasized that he is a political product of the LSI party and does not intend to betray its ideals.

Myslim Murrizi, a former deputy of the Democratic Party (DP), also criticized Meta for his alleged dictatorial behavior. Murrizi accused Meta of playing 'hard' for power, moving from the DP side to the Socialist Party (SP) side, and doing 'acrobatics' to maintain his position. He also criticized Meta's role in the events of January 21, 2011, and his subsequent support for Edi Rama's rise to power.

Why this matters: The internal tensions and criticism within the Freedom Party highlight the challenges faced by political parties in Albania. The allegations of dictatorial behavior and promotion of low-engagement individuals raise concerns about the party's leadership and decision-making processes.

The upcoming National Convention of the Freedom Party is expected to address these issues and provide an opportunity for the party to resolve internal conflicts. Braimllari expressed hope that the party will return to normal after the event and that if teams change, it will be for the better. The Freedom Party faces the task of presenting a clear message and strong organizational plan to the people of Albania in the face of these internal challenges.

Key Takeaways

• Ilir Meta, leader of Albania's Freedom Party, faces criticism from party members.
• Allegations of dictatorial behavior and promoting low-engagement individuals within the party.
• Former deputy chairman Endrit Braimllari resigns amid tensions, denies cooperating with government.
• Former DP deputy Myslim Murrizi accuses Meta of playing 'hard' for power and 'acrobatics'.
• Upcoming National Convention expected to address internal conflicts within the Freedom Party.