The historic leader of the Albanian Democrats Sali Berisha said disgraced former chairman of the Democratic Party Lulzim Basha is negotiating and gathering signatures for his candidature as the new President of the Republic. The term of incumbent Ilir Meta expires in July.

The Albanian Constitutions says the signatures of 20 Members of the Parliament are needed for one to run for the Head of State.

Berisha said in Shkodra today that the Democratic Party will not vote for any candidate proposed by Premier Edi Rama, hinting at Lulzim Basha.

While Berisha did not mention names, Democrat MP Grid Duma was categorical in her response whether she would vote for Basha.

“No! I will not vote for Lulzim Basha as President”, said Duma, a supporter of Basha until one month ago, before the defeat in the March 6 mayoral by-elections.