Albania's Legal Shake-Up: Rama's Controversial Shield for Ministers
Albanian PM Edi Rama proposes legal changes to protect ministers from suspension during criminal investigations, amid accusations of undermining judicial independence. The move follows the suspension of his deputy, Belinda Balluku, sparking opposition protests. Albania's EU aspirations are tied to combating crime and corruption effectively.
Albania's Prime Minister, Edi Rama, has announced plans to amend laws to shield ministers from suspension during criminal investigations. The announcement follows the suspension of Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku, accused by anti-graft prosecutors of meddling in infrastructure project tenders.
This proposed legal change has sparked significant political tension, with the opposition accusing Rama of attempting to protect himself and compromise judicial independence. The controversy has intensified following SPAK's push for parliamentary action to lift Balluku's immunity for arrest.
As Albania strives for EU membership by 2030, the EU emphasizes the necessity for rigorous efforts to combat crime and corruption. Meanwhile, opposition protests have gained momentum, demanding Balluku's resignation and denouncing Rama's perceived judicial overreach.