Albania’s former prime minister Sali Berisha is appearing before prosecutors today, facing allegations his supporters claim are politically driven. Protests are expected as tensions rise between his Democratic Party and the government.
Former Albanian prime minister Sali Berisha is expected to appear at the Special Prosecution Office (SPAK) today after a court upheld a “compulsory appearance” order against him.
The ruling by the Special Appeals Court has sparked protests from Berisha’s Democratic Party, which accuses the government of using the judiciary to target political opponents. Demonstrators are expected to gather outside SPAK headquarters during Berisha’s appearance.
In a message to supporters, the Democratic Party called for widespread participation, accusing SPAK of being “a tool in Prime Minister Edi Rama’s hands.” The party says it is standing up for “justice, the law, and the truth,” insisting that Berisha is the victim of a politically motivated campaign.
Berisha, a dominant figure in Albanian politics for decades, served as prime minister from 2005 to 2013. He has faced accusations of corruption and abuse of power but denies any wrongdoing. His supporters claim the allegations are part of an effort to silence dissent, while critics see them as overdue accountability for past actions.
The government, led by Prime Minister Rama, has rejected claims of interference, saying judicial reforms are crucial for Albania’s EU membership bid. Rama’s administration has repeatedly emphasized the importance of strengthening the rule of law and tackling corruption.
