We are only 6 days away from Sunday's election. On April 25, Albanians will decide on the candidates they will represent in parliament. But not everyone will choose to vote. Some, given the fact that they do not support any party, will not vote. This issue is very much for discussion, however there are some strong reasons why it should be voted on.
The vote is the right to choose and privilege. We live in a state that despite its problems, it must be said that we are lucky to enjoy the right to vote for the people who will represent us in parliament. In many countries, the right to vote (especially for women) does not exist.
Voting has consequences. You need to understand that you decide on your quality of life and the next generation, at least for the next 4 years. Vote is your way of addressing problems.
Choosing not to vote is not rebellion, it is resignation. Elections are nothing but a process where the outcome depends on the people who vote. Even if choosing not to vote seems like a form of voting, remember that when the votes are counted, the vote of someone who voted has more weight. "It's simple math, it works - it happens that bad governments are chosen by good people who choose not to vote," said George Jean Nathan.
It's your money at the end of the day. Do you pay taxes? Do you not want to decide how your money will be spent and who will manage it? The vote is not just to choose who will stay in the offices of the ministries and so on.
Voting is a responsibility to others. Many people, such as children, cannot vote. So many others do not know that voting is also a responsibility to people who do not have this privilege. In addition, parents need to teach their children, through their example, the importance of voting as a right to choose and make decisions.
Every vote counts. History has shown that even one vote has made a difference. "If you do not vote, you have lost the right to object," said George Carlin.
But what to do if you do not like any of the parties?
Study the policies of each party and find out which one you most agree with. Understand which candidate you tolerate the most. The people who will be elected decide your fate - who do you trust the most to make the best decisions for you and 2.8+ million others? What about small parties? Have you ever seen their programs? Although not very privileged in elections, history has shown that even the candidates of these parties can gain the trust of the people (remember the case of Albin Kurti and Vetëvendosje in Kosovo).
Do research for candidates and vote for those you think will implement policies that are in line with your principles. Vote is a privilege that unfortunately is not given to everyone - as long as it is given to you, use it.
