Albanian High Court Rules That Tirana's Mayor Must Remain Detained Amid Legal Controversies
On July 8, 2025, the Albanian High Court made the decision to keep Erion Veliaj, the Mayor of Tirana, in detention at the IVEP Durres facility. This ruling follows nearly five months of his detention and a protracted investigation by the Special Prosecution Office Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK), which spanned around two years. The courtroom proceedings were closed to the public, and the decision has sparked significant concern, especially since Veliaj remains without access to his international legal counsel.
Veliaj, who categorically denies the allegations of wrongdoing leveled against him, is represented by the international firms Kasowitz LLP and Mishcon de Reya. This situation escalates the emotional strain on his family and friends who are affected by his continued confinement. Legal professionals, including former U.S. federal prosecutor Daniel Fetterman, have voiced their discontent with how this case has been handled, pointing out that Veliaj has not been charged with any crime yet remains behind bars.
Fetterman stated, 'The continued detention of Mayor Veliaj—without any charges and amid clearly viable alternative measures—violates the established principles of due process and is antithetical to the rule of law.' The Mayor himself expressed his disappointment, noting that he expected progress towards being reunited with his family instead of remaining isolated at IVEP Durres. He pointed out, 'I am unable to access my international legal advisor or obtain the necessary information to defend myself against the allegations.'
In light of the circumstances, Veliaj insists that he will explore all legal avenues available to him in the hopes of returning to his role in service to the city of Tirana. Legal representative Ben Brandon from Mishcon de Reya further remarked, 'The European Convention of Human Rights (ECHR) directly prohibits arbitrary detention and asserts that custody must be necessary, proportionate, and reasonable.' While they await a comprehensive ruling from the High Court, the legal team is considering all possible legal recourse.
The case has raised eyebrows within the Albanian legal community and beyond, with many questioning the judicial practices surrounding the detention of elected officials. A detailed report addressing the unjust detention of Mayor Veliaj by the SPAK is available, underscoring the serious implications of this ongoing saga. Kasowitz and Mishcon de Reya are committed to vigorously pursuing all international legal remedies on behalf of Veliaj, stressing the importance of adhering to procedures that uphold human rights standards.
This case not only highlights procedural issues within Albania's legal system but also brings to attention the broader context of governance and accountability for public officials in the light of corruption allegations. The situation remains dynamic, with many eyes focused on the High Court's next move and the subsequent impact on Veliaj’s political career and the operational integrity of Tirana's local government.
Veliaj, who categorically denies the allegations of wrongdoing leveled against him, is represented by the international firms Kasowitz LLP and Mishcon de Reya. This situation escalates the emotional strain on his family and friends who are affected by his continued confinement. Legal professionals, including former U.S. federal prosecutor Daniel Fetterman, have voiced their discontent with how this case has been handled, pointing out that Veliaj has not been charged with any crime yet remains behind bars.
Fetterman stated, 'The continued detention of Mayor Veliaj—without any charges and amid clearly viable alternative measures—violates the established principles of due process and is antithetical to the rule of law.' The Mayor himself expressed his disappointment, noting that he expected progress towards being reunited with his family instead of remaining isolated at IVEP Durres. He pointed out, 'I am unable to access my international legal advisor or obtain the necessary information to defend myself against the allegations.'
In light of the circumstances, Veliaj insists that he will explore all legal avenues available to him in the hopes of returning to his role in service to the city of Tirana. Legal representative Ben Brandon from Mishcon de Reya further remarked, 'The European Convention of Human Rights (ECHR) directly prohibits arbitrary detention and asserts that custody must be necessary, proportionate, and reasonable.' While they await a comprehensive ruling from the High Court, the legal team is considering all possible legal recourse.
The case has raised eyebrows within the Albanian legal community and beyond, with many questioning the judicial practices surrounding the detention of elected officials. A detailed report addressing the unjust detention of Mayor Veliaj by the SPAK is available, underscoring the serious implications of this ongoing saga. Kasowitz and Mishcon de Reya are committed to vigorously pursuing all international legal remedies on behalf of Veliaj, stressing the importance of adhering to procedures that uphold human rights standards.
This case not only highlights procedural issues within Albania's legal system but also brings to attention the broader context of governance and accountability for public officials in the light of corruption allegations. The situation remains dynamic, with many eyes focused on the High Court's next move and the subsequent impact on Veliaj’s political career and the operational integrity of Tirana's local government.
Topics Policy & Public Interest）
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