#Erion Veliaj #Albania #Tirana

Victory for Democracy: Erion Veliaj's Return to Office

On November 3, 2025, a significant ruling from the Albanian Constitutional Court reinstated Erion Veliaj as the Mayor of Tirana after a long, tumultuous battle that lasted nine months. The court determined that the Tirana Municipal Council's decision to dismiss Veliaj was unconstitutional due to his involuntary detention, thereby halting planned special elections aimed at filling his position. This judgment marks a critical point in the struggle for democratic governance in Albania, reaffirming the principle that elected officials cannot be removed from office without proper legal procedures.

Veliaj, who was detained for reasons that his supporters argue were politically motivated, addressed the court for the first time since his arrest, delivering a poignant nine-minute speech. 'I waited nine months to speak for nine minutes,' he stated, emphasizing the unjust nature of his sidelining. Veliaj expressed that despite his imprisonment, the truth of his leadership and the mandate given to him by the people of Tirana could not be silenced. He declared:

"You can imprison a person, but not their truth. My absence has been imposed by the state, which used a disproportionate decision to take away not just my freedom but my connection to the city before any guilt was proven. Should we allow the notion that any elected figure can be removed under temporary arrest, effectively stripping citizens of their choice?"

His statements resonated deeply, stirring concerns about the consequences of such actions on Albania's democratic processes. He urged the court to safeguard the democracy that is currently under strain, stating, 'Two injustices do not produce justice.' Veliaj's emotional return signifies not only personal vindication but also a broader struggle for the rights of elected officials.

The ruling has been hailed as a monumental victory by Kasowitz LLP, the law firm representing Veliaj. Daniel Fetterman, one of the lead attorneys, remarked that this outcome is not solely a win for Veliaj but for the citizens of Tirana and advocates of democracy worldwide. Observers note that the Constitutional Court's decision serves as a pivotal milestone, reaffirming Albania's commitment to the rule of law and ensuring that elected officials are held accountable only through appropriate legal channels.

Moreover, this landmark case illustrates the ongoing challenges faced by governments in maintaining effective democracy amid political turbulence. The Kasowitz team included notable figures like Brian S. Choi and Clarine Nardi Riddle, along with associates from London-based Mishcon de Reya, who lent their expertise to support Veliaj's legal fight.

As Veliaj reclaims his role, the implications of this case extend beyond the confines of Tirana, reflecting the global conversation about governance, justice, and the preservation of democratic values. His reinstatement inspires hope among residents for significant civic transformation and reassures them of the importance of due process and legal protections in their governance.

In conclusion, Erion Veliaj's journey back to the mayor's office stands as a testament to resilience in the face of injustice. The victory not only reinforces the structure of Albanian political law but also reinforces the necessity for vigilance in protecting democratic institutions against potential abuses of power. As he resumes his duties, Veliaj is poised to lead Tirana towards becoming a European hub, embracing its potential while fostering a thriving, inclusive city for all its inhabitants.