#Erion Veliaj #SPAK #Albania #Tirana

Albanian High Court Upholds Mayor Veliaj's Detention

In a notable ruling, the Albanian High Court confirmed that Erion Veliaj, the current Mayor of Tirana, will continue to be detained at IVEP Durres. This decision came from a closed-door hearing held on July 8, 2025, which resulted from a prolonged inquiry by the Special Prosecutor's Office for the Special Anti-Corruption and Organized Crime Structure (SPAK).

Mayor Veliaj has publicly denied all allegations against him, maintaining his innocence amidst an investigation that has extended over two years and includes nearly five months of detention. His legal team, consisting of international representatives from Kasowitz LLP and Mishcon de Reya, has criticized the legal proceedings, stating that Mayor Veliaj has not been able to access his lawyers or necessary evidence for his defense.

The implications of this detention have caused significant distress not only to Veliaj’s immediate family and friends but also to the broader community witnessing the unfolding of these events. Daniel Fetterman, a partner at Kasowitz and a former U.S. federal prosecutor, expressed grave concerns about the legality of the mayor's continued incarceration. He emphasized that keeping Veliaj in detention without formal charges contradicts foundational principles of due process and undermines the rule of law.

Despite the court's ruling, Veliaj remains hopeful about his case. In a statement following the decision, he noted, "Today's ruling is incredibly disappointing. I should be one step closer to returning home to my family. Instead, I find myself imprisoned without any clear path to justice. I am determined to explore all legal options available to reclaim my position and serve the people of Tirana."

Ben Brandon, another member of Veliaj’s legal team, highlighted the broader human rights implications of this case, noting that the European Convention on Human Rights prohibits arbitrary detention. The standard for detention must be established on necessity, proportionality, and reasonableness. He stated, "We will await the complete decision from the High Court and explore all potential legal remedies, as we are deeply concerned that Mayor Veliaj’s ongoing detention may be a violation of the ECHR."

The political landscape in Albania continues to be fraught with tension, particularly as accusations of corruption and mismanagement within the government arise. The ongoing saga surrounding Mayor Veliaj adds another layer of complexity to an already contentious environment. Public opinion appears divided, with some viewing the mayor as a victim of a politically motivated campaign, while others question the accountability of leaders in a rapidly changing socio-political landscape.

As the situation develops, more information is likely to emerge concerning the specific allegations against Veliaj, the legal arguments being made by his defense team, and the potential impact this case could have on future governance in Albania. Observers are keenly watching how this case unfolds and what it might mean for democracy and the rule of law in the country.

The latest developments reiterate the need for transparency and adherence to legal norms, with calls growing louder for the authorities to ensure that due process is followed and that the rights of individuals, including prominent political figures, are protected without prejudice. The future of Tirana’s leadership may very well hang on the outcomes of this high-stakes legal battle, a scenario that could resonate across the Albanian political sphere for years to come.