#Erion Veliaj #Albania #Tirana #Tirana Mayor

Albania's Supreme Court Decision on Mayor Veliaj's Custody

In a controversial ruling yesterday, Albania's Supreme Court determined that Erion Veliaj, the Mayor of Tirana, will continue to remain in custody at IVEP Durres. The closed-door session was held on July 8, 2025, where the court reviewed pertinent documents regarding the Mayor's legal situation. This decision comes as Veliaj, who vehemently denies any criminal activity, has been detained for nearly five months after a lengthy investigation conducted by the Special Prosecution Office Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) that has extended over two years.

Despite the intense scrutiny, Veliaj has faced challenges accessing his legal representation, leaving him and his supporters concerned about the implications of his prolonged detention without charges. The legal team from Kasowitz LLP and Mishcon de Reya, representing Veliaj, expresses their grave concerns regarding this decision, highlighting the contradictions it presents to established fair trial protocols.

The former federal prosecutor and partner at Kasowitz, Daniel Fetterman, stated, “The ongoing detention of Mayor Veliaj—without formal charges and in the presence of other clear, proportional, and justified alternatives to detention—contradicts established principles of a fair judicial process and undermines the rule of law.” This statement emphasizes the growing worry about Veliaj’s rights under the law and the appropriate measures considered before detaining him.

In addressing the court’s ruling, Mayor Veliaj expressed profound disappointment at the decision, indicating, “Today’s ruling by the Albanian Supreme Court is extremely disheartening. I should be one step closer to returning home to my family, yet I remain captive and isolated in IVEP Durres, lacking access to international legal assistance or the necessary information required for an adequate defense against the allegations.” His determination to utilize all legal avenues available to him to return to his role for the people of Tirana is resolute.

Ben Brandon of Mishcon de Reya added, “The European Convention on Human Rights prohibits arbitrary detention, stating that any deprivation of liberty must be necessary, proportional, and justified. While we await the complete decision from the Supreme Court, we are considering all possible legal recourse. We remain deeply troubled that Mayor Veliaj’s continued detention constitutes a violation of these principles.” This statement highlights the ongoing discourse surrounding legal rights and the importance of due process in Albania's justice system.

The extended period without formal charges raises questions about fairness in the legal proceedings. Supporters of Veliaj express mounting anxiety regarding his physical and mental well-being during this uncertain timeframe. The legal and human rights implications of this case could significantly influence public opinion and future legal standards in Albania.

As the narrative surrounding Mayor Veliaj continues to evolve, the legal teams from Kasowitz LLP and Mishcon de Reya are pursuing every potential international legal path on his behalf, aiming to question the legitimacy of his detention and advocate for his rights under the law. A full report on the wrongful detention claims can be found through the relevant channels associated with these law firms. The case is a pivotal moment not only for Veliaj but also for the Albanian legal system as it navigates through complex issues of justice, power, and human rights.