Prime Minister Edi Rama has condemned political rallies taking place prior to the April 25 general elections that infringe COVID-19 restrictions.
“Politicians break the rules by meeting with more people than the number determined by the Technical Committee. This is irresponsible and unjustifiable,” he said during a press conference.
There have been a number of incidents in recent weeks where politicians from different political parties appear to have held rallies and political meetings in violation of the rules. These include more than 10 people present and while not wearing masks. Ministers from Rama’s own party have also been implicated.
The Prime Minister added that there would be an increase in fines for businesses and the tightening of restrictive measures for those that did not respect the rules.
“We are motivated to do everything right so that we are not forced to return to strong, restrictive measures. But to avoid this, we need everyone to be motivated,” he said.
Currently, there is a curfew in place every night between 10 pm and 6 am. Masks are mandatory in public and there are fines payable by citizens and businesses that do not comply. While the airport remains open, people arriving from the UK are required to quarantine on arrival for two weeks.
