On February 10, 2025, Tirana`s Mayor Erion Veliaj was arrested by the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecution Office/SPAK under serious allegations, including corruption, money laundering, and misuse of public funds. His arrest has triggered a political whirlwind in Albania, leading to debates about justice, power, and political interference. But how did a routine legal matter turn into a full-blown public spectacle?
Just two days later, on February 12, supporters of Veliaj gathered outside the Special Court Against Corruption and Organized Crime/ GJKKO to protest his detention. But was this just a peaceful rally, or was something more at play? The protest quickly escalated into a political standoff, with accusations flying in every direction.
The State Police found themselves in the spotlight, facing criticism for their handling of security at the rally. While they argued the gathering was peaceful and posed no immediate threat, SPAK and GJKKO questioned the police`s response, asking why they didn`t act sooner. The police defended their actions, stating they only deployed officers after the rally had already started and claimed there was no immediate threat to public order. Here to say, was the situation mishandled, or were the police simply caught off guard?
As the political fallout from the arrest of Tirana Mayor Erion Veliaj continues, key political figures have made their voices heard. Jorida Tabaku, a Democratic MP, didn`t hold back, calling the Veliaj rally a “Coup attempt“. She slammed the government for allegedly using state resources to intimidate and undermine SPAK`s independence. Tabaku`s comments reflect growing concerns within the opposition about government interference in Albania`s judicial system. But is this just an accusation, or a sign of something deeper threatening democratic values?
Prime Minister Edi Rama quickly countered, urging an end to rallies outside judicial institutions. While he acknowledged the emotional support for Veliaj, Rama was clear: no political interference should be allowed when it comes to the justice system. He framed the rally as an innocent but misguided show of support and stressed the importance of maintaining the separation of powers. Was Rama`s response a necessary safeguard, or did he go too far in shutting down the protests?
Meanwhile, opposition leader Sali Berisha seized the moment to retaliate. Just days after condemning the Veliaj rally for attempting to influence the judicial process, Berisha organized his own rally ahead of his SPAK hearing. Critics wasted no time calling out his hypocrisy, accusing him of doing exactly what he had condemned. Berisha, however, stood firm, insisting he was simply pushing back against what he views as government manipulation of justice.
On the other hand, Lulzim Basha, leader of the Euro-Atlantic Democrats, didn`t mince words either. He mocked the political theatrics at SPAK, suggesting that both sides should save their energy and combine forces for a single demonstration. His sarcastic take highlighted the growing public frustration with political grandstanding surrounding judicial matters.
In an attempt to calm the storm, the Police Supervisory Agency launched an investigation into the police`s handling of security at the rally. Several officers have been questioned, but so far, no definitive conclusions have been reached. Authorities are still reviewing whether the proper procedures were followed in managing the protest. Were the police simply caught of guard, or is there more to this situation that meets the eye?
The political drama surrounding Veliaj`s arrest and the rallies has unveiled Albania`s deep political rifts. As investigations progress and accusations continue to fly, the real question remains: can the country`s institutions withstand the pressure, or will political manoeuvring continue to cloud the judicial process? The coming weeks will reveal whether justice can shine through or if political battles will dominate the stage.
Written by our correspondent A.T.
