| Country | AL |
| Name and Surname | Enriko Gabaj |
| Gender | Male |
| Date | 04/08/2024 |
| City / Location | Himara |
| Type of incident | Other threats to journalists |
| By whom | By public officials |
| Type of media | Radio and television online |
| Media name | Euronews |
| Source | https://euronews.al/himare-gazetari-i-euronews-albania-ndalohet-te-hyje-ne-qv-kunder-vendimit-te-kqz/ |
| Legal closure | Ongoing (or case not closed) |
| Was journalist`s association informed | Yes |
On August 4, 2024, during the municipal elections in Himarë, Albania, accredited journalist Enriko Gabaj from Euronews Albania was denied entry to a polling station in Lukovë. This occurred despite the existing directive from the Central Election Commission (CEC) permitting accredited journalists to access polling stations to observe the electoral process. The candidates in the election are Vangjel Tavo from the Socialist Party (PS) and Petro Gjikuria from the opposition. Enriko Gabaj, holding proper accreditation, attempted to enter the polling station in Lukovë to cover the ongoing electoral process as part of his duties for Euronews Albania. However, he was barred from entry by election officials at that specific polling station. The officials did not provide a clear explanation for denying access. An order dated August 2, 2024, issued by the Chief Commissioner of the Central Election Commission, Ilirian Celibashi, explicitly states that accredited journalists are allowed to enter polling stations to observe the election proceedings closely.
The electoral process in Himarë has been marked by tensions due to reports that citizens with expired identification cards have been denied the right to vote. This issue has heightened the sensitivity surrounding the election and increased the need for media presence to ensure transparency.
Source:
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/jqaRo4wjZuH3eSYh/?mibextid=xfxF2i
