Tirana’s mayor, Erion Veliaj, has been accused of fleeing Albania amid mounting legal challenges. Sali Berisha, leader of Albania’s Democratic Party, claimed Veliaj left the country early Saturday following formal corruption charges.
“After being formally presented with charges that could result in sentences ranging from 20 to 35 years in prison, Veliaj left the country at 5:15 a.m. today. While rumors suggest he may be heading to the United States, his exact destination remains unknown,” Berisha said in a statement.
The accusations focus on Veliaj’s alleged involvement in a series of controversial projects, including the missing Tirana incinerator and the “one million trees” initiative. Critics claim these projects failed to deliver promised results. Berisha also suggested that Veliaj’s largest financial deposits were in Dubai, although no direct evidence has been provided.
Berisha called for Veliaj’s immediate return to Albania, condemning the alleged flight as “a scandalous act.”
Veliaj responds, insists trip is official
In a swift response, Veliaj denied the allegations, insisting his departure was for an official trip to the United States. Taking to social media, the mayor said, “You’ve spread the rumor that I fled Albania because someone saw me on a plane. I’m in the U.S. for meetings I’ve had scheduled for months, as Mayor of Tirana. I’m not a fugitive.”
Veliaj continued to criticize Berisha, accusing him of spreading false accusations. “I came back to Albania 20 years ago to help lift the country out of the mess you and your friends created. I’m not fleeing now, especially not from anonymous letters or the misguided fantasies of those who attack my family,” he said.
The mayor also emphasized his support for Albania’s new justice system, stating, “I respect the law and will face whatever comes my way. Unlike you, I don’t use my position to undermine institutions.”
Background
Veliaj has faced scrutiny from Albania’s Special Structure Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) regarding his involvement in multiple high-profile projects. Meanwhile, Berisha himself has been the subject of legal challenges, including being designated persona non grata by the United States over corruption allegations.
