The Special Prosecution Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) plans to question several politicians and former politicians involved in the January 21, 2011 protest in Tirana. This investigation aims to gather evidence about the actions taken by organizers to prevent violent incidents during the demonstration, which ended tragically with four fatalities.
Among those already questioned are MP Xhemal Qefalia, former Socialist Party leader for Tirana Saimir Tahiri, and former MP Arben Cuko. SPAK may also question Prime Minister Edi Rama and other officials connected to the Socialist Party, which informed authorities about the mass gathering.
Investigators have found evidence suggesting that the political party notified the Tirana police regarding the event’s approval and management. Former officials named by the family of the late Aleks Nika—such as former Prime Minister Sali Berisha, former Interior Minister Lulzim Basha, and former Guard commander Ndrea Prendi—are expected to be questioned once the initial witness list is complete, including around 50 officers from the Guard units stationed at the Prime Minister’s Office during the protest.
Previously, SPAK questioned the former General Director of the State Police and his deputy as witnesses. The prosecution has also reviewed a decision from April 20, 2012, which closed investigations into several guards involved in what was termed the “fire group.”
What happened on January 21, 2011?
A protest organized by the opposition in Tirana turned deadly when clashes between demonstrators and police erupted, resulting in the deaths of four individuals. The demonstration, led by the Socialist Party, aimed to criticize the government of Prime Minister Sali Berisha, accusing it of corruption and mismanagement.
Tensions escalated when police reportedly used firearms in response to the unrest, prompting widespread outrage across the nation. The violence underscored significant political divisions and raised serious concerns about the state of democracy and civil rights in Albania.
In the aftermath, the incident drew calls for accountability and investigations into the police’s actions, as well as intensified protests against the government. The January 21 protest marked a critical moment in Albania’s political landscape, reflecting ongoing struggles for reform and the demand for greater transparency and justice.
