Sali Berisha, leader of Albania’s Democratic Party, has blasted the arrest of Tirana’s Mayor, Erion Veliaj, calling it long overdue.
Speaking on national TV, Berisha claimed that Veliaj should have been behind bars months ago, specifically in December 2024.
“We held 44 protests. Just for the Tirana incinerator scandal, we’re talking about €130 million—gone! And it doesn’t even exist. Edi Rama had completely abandoned Veliaj. This arrest was expected in December, but Rama didn’t want it to happen then,” he said.
Double Standards?
When asked about the imprisonment of former President Ilir Meta, Berisha didn’t hold back.
“Ilir Meta is in jail without a single piece of evidence, without a charge—just as a person under investigation. Meanwhile, Veliaj has been caught with a wardrobe full of luxury clothes for his wife, worth as much as Assad’s,” he alleged.
Berisha claimed customs invoices have surfaced, proving high-end purchases linked to Veliaj’s family. “These are official documents—undeniable evidence,” he stated.
No Deal With Rama
Berisha shut down any possibility of working with Prime Minister Edi Rama on judicial reforms.
“I will take this issue to the Venice Commission, and the Albanian people will decide in a referendum. I work with the citizens, not with Rama,” he declared.
SPAK Under Fire
Berisha acknowledged there are honest officials within Albania’s Special Anti-Corruption Structure (SPAK), the National Bureau of Investigation (BKH), and the courts.
However, he accused SPAK’s chief prosecutor, Altin Dumani, of turning a blind eye to Veliaj.
“Dumani has two choices: take on cases himself or send his opinions to court. Yet, despite citing Arben Ahmetaj 13 times regarding the incinerator scandal, he didn’t say a single word about Veliaj,” Berisha fumed.
Trump Connection
Berisha also addressed his contract with Chris LaCivita, chairman of the Republican National Committee under Donald Trump.
“Everything is fully legal, fully transparent. The contract will be submitted to the Central Election Commission,” he assured.
With Albanian politics heating up and arrests shaking the establishment, this is a saga far from over.
