Albania’s Socialist Party (SP) has responded to concerns over its proposed territorial reform, which includes the merger of 15 municipalities, stressing that the territorial consolidation will not result in the “elimination” of any municipality or city.

According to the SP, the municipalities included in the reform will retain their names, identities and urban centers. The party also said that every area affected by the process will continue to have institutional representation through a deputy mayor and representation in the municipal council.

“A clarification and additional information regarding the reports circulating in the media about the Administrative-Territorial Reform process.

Territorial consolidation does not mean the ‘elimination’ of any municipality or city. The municipalities involved in this process will retain their names, identities and urban centers. They will become part of a new administrative structure through their merger with neighboring municipalities, while continuing to hold the status of constituent cities within the new local government unit.

Every center affected by this process will continue to have institutional representation through the respective deputy mayor and representation in the municipal council, as well as a defined role in local planning, the organization of public services and the administration of community affairs.

The aim of this process is to create a more efficient system of local governance while preserving the identity, history and direct connection of citizens with the areas where they live,” the statement said.

Under the draft law, 28 municipalities would be consolidated into 13 new municipalities. The municipalities proposed for merger are Fushë-Arrëz, Klos, Rrogozhinë, Dimal, Poliçan, Patos, Divjakë, Selenicë, Maliq, Këlcyrë, Memaliaj, Libohovë, Cërrik, Belsh and Përrenjas.