A strong reaction has erupted after the post of the MEP and former mayor of Himara, Fredi Beleri, who commemorated February 17, 1914, the proclamation of the so-called “Autonomy of Northern Epirus”. In his public message, he describes this moment as an “act of dignity” and “self-determination”. But for Albanians, 1914 is not a chapter of pride. It is one of the most painful periods in the history of the south and southeast of the country.

In his public message, he describes this moment as an “act of dignity” and “self-determination”. But for Albanians, 1914 is not a chapter of pride. It is one of the most painful periods in the history of the south and southeast of the country.

Historical archives and testimonies of the time speak of organized violence against the Albanian civilian population in areas such as Kolonja, Përmeti, Tepelena, Korça, Gjirokastra, Skrapari, Labëria, Borshi and Delvina.

The Hormova massacre remains one of the most serious episodes of that period. Hundreds of men were executed, villages were burned and thousands of families were forced to relocate. This is the same historical period that is commemorated today as an “act of dignity”. For every Albanian, this contrast is shocking.

No one disputes the rights of national minorities in Albania, they are guaranteed by law and the Constitution. But the proud commemoration of a moment related to attempts at territorial dismemberment and violence against Albanians is perceived as pure provocation.

Especially when this comes from a person who holds several positions: former mayor of an Albanian municipality, citizen with an Albanian passport, MEP who speaks on behalf of the “Europe of values”.

Will there be a reaction?

The European Parliament promotes good neighborliness, stability and respect for the territorial integrity of candidate countries.

For many Albanian citizens, the question arises: is it in accordance with these principles to glorify a chapter that for Albania represents one of the darkest and most painful periods?

1914 is not a holiday for Albanians. It is a reminder of a tragic period. History cannot be viewed with double standards: what is called “dignity” for one side is a wound for the other. And historical wounds are not healed by celebration.

Source

https://joq-albania.com/artikull/1343913.html