Activist shot dead during Albanian vote
- 11 years ago
An opposition activist lies dead outside a polling station in Albania.
The 53-year-old was gunned down Sunday in a shootout that also seriously wounded a local politician, according to reports.
The violence comes as Albanians vote in a crucial parliamentary election.
The country is bidding to join the European Union, and the vote is seen as a test of its democratic institutions.
Prime Minister Sali Berisha is seeking an unprecedented third consecutive term in office.
After the shooting, the fiery former cardiologist renewed calls for a peaceful vote.
He is facing a strong challenge from the Socialist Party - headed by Edi Rama - leading opinion polls.
Albania, a country of about 3 million, has not had a fully free and fair election since the fall of communism in 1991.
The 53-year-old was gunned down Sunday in a shootout that also seriously wounded a local politician, according to reports.
The violence comes as Albanians vote in a crucial parliamentary election.
The country is bidding to join the European Union, and the vote is seen as a test of its democratic institutions.
Prime Minister Sali Berisha is seeking an unprecedented third consecutive term in office.
After the shooting, the fiery former cardiologist renewed calls for a peaceful vote.
He is facing a strong challenge from the Socialist Party - headed by Edi Rama - leading opinion polls.
Albania, a country of about 3 million, has not had a fully free and fair election since the fall of communism in 1991.