2022 Albanian presidential election

2022 Albanian presidential election
20 of 140 votes needed to be nominated; 84 of 140 votes needed to win
President before election; Ilir Meta;	Elected President ; Bajram Begaj;

The 2022 Albanian presidential election marked the ninth presidential election held in Albania, taking place from 10 May to 4 June 2022. The election process commenced with the nomination of candidates by the parliament of Albania, necessitating a total of four rounds of voting. The initial three rounds of voting, held on 16, 23, and 30 May, did not result in the election of a president due to an insufficient number of candidates, largely attributed to the internal leadership crisis of the Democratic Party (PD) and the disagreements among the governing parties. On 3 June, the Socialist Party (PS) nominated Bajram Begaj, who was subsequently elected in the fourth round on 4 June.

The election of the president of Albania is regulated by the constitution, which delineates specific criteria for candidacy that include being Albanian citizens by birth, have resided in Albania for a minimum of ten years, be at least 40 years of age, and refrain from holding any political party affiliation. The electoral process is initiated by parliament, which is responsible for scheduling elections at least 30 days prior to the expiration of the incumbent term of the president. The election is conducted through a secret ballot, requiring a three-fifths majority; should this majority not be attained after multiple voting rounds, the parliament may be dissolved, requiring subsequent elections. Upon election, the president serves a term of five years, with the possibility of re-election for one additional consecutive term.

Bajram Begaj was inaugurated as the president of Albania on 24 July 2022 in Tirana, beginning his five-year term after taking the oath in the parliament. In his inaugural address, he articulated key priorities including national unity, security, European Union (EU) integration, and Albania's role in the international community. Begaj committed to upholding the constitution while promoting the rights and prosperity of the Albanian people. His inauguration garnered congratulations from various international dignitaries, including leaders from China, Kosovo, Russia and Saudi Arabia, underscoring the significance of Albania's diplomatic relations and its commitment to international integration.