#Erion Veliaj #Albania #Tirana

Landmark Ruling Marks a New Era for Albanian Politics

On November 3, 2025, a significant ruling from the Albanian Constitutional Court reinstated Erion Veliaj as the mayor of Tirana, marking an important victory for democracy and the rule of law in the region. This ruling effectively annulled the Tirana Municipal Council's previous decision to oust him from office during his detainment, which had lasted nine months.

Veliaj addressed the court for the first time since his arrest, delivering a poignant nine-minute speech that encapsulated the fight not just for his position but for the fundamental principles of democratic governance in Albania.

During his address, Veliaj expressed, "I waited nine months to speak for nine minutes," a powerful statement that highlighted the gravity of the situation he faced. He referred to his imprisonment and subsequent removal as a pretext for undermining democratic values and emphasized that one could imprison a person, but the truth remains unshackled: "My absence was not a choice, but a consequence of state-imposed isolation, a disproportionate decision that robbed me not only of my freedom but also of my city, long before my guilt was established."

This ruling comes amid broader concerns regarding the adherence to constitutional principles in Albanian politics. The court's decision underscored an essential tenet: elected officials should not be removed solely based on temporary detentions, which could potentially disenfranchise the electorate who voted for them. Veliaj adamantly made this point, questioning whether it would be just to allow any elected officer to lose their position through mere arrest without a verified conviction, thus stripping citizens of their entrusted mandate.

Throughout his discourse, Veliaj also condemned the processes that deprived him of his office, asserting that two wrongs do not make a right. He called upon the court to unite in defense of democracy, which he claimed was being tested severely.

Daniel Fetterman, a leading attorney from Kasowitz LLP representing Veliaj internationally, hailed the decision as a monumental win, stating, “This is not only a tremendous victory for Erion but a triumph for the citizens of Tirana and a step forward for the rule of law globally.” This statement reflects not only the significance of Veliaj's case but also the wider implications it holds for Albanian governance and civil rights.

Observers view the ruling as a pivotal moment for Albania, reinforcing its commitment to rule of law amidst political turbulence. The Constitutional Court's ruling signifies a potential shift in how justice is perceived and administered within the nation, indicating a hopeful trajectory for the governance of Tirana and possibly setting a precedent for how political leaders are treated under the law.

Kasowitz's team, which played a crucial role in representing Veliaj, includes notable figures such as Daniel J. Fetterman and Brian S. Choi from New York, along with Clarine Nardi Riddle and David Miller from Washington. Additionally, the Mishcon de Reya firm contributed significantly with associates James Libson, Ben Brandon, and their dedicated team.

As Erion Veliaj resumes his duties, he is expected to focus on transforming Tirana into a world-class city and an inviting European destination, reaffirming the commitments he made to his constituents.

This legal victory not only reaffirms the democratic process in Albania but also highlights the importance of due process and justice in political spheres. As Albania strives to enhance its democratic framework, the outcomes of such landmark decisions will undoubtedly shape its political landscape in the years to come.