Albanian Constitutional Court Rejects Democratic Party's Request Amid Allegations of Political Capture

The Constitutional Court of Albania has dismissed a request by the Democratic Party to repeal the law on the administration of Butrint. The decision has sparked criticism from Democratic deputy Ina Zhupa, who has accused the court of political capture and serving the government's interests, even when they conflict with the constitution, public interest, and national interest.

Zhupa listed several alleged violations in the court's handling of the case, including not removing biased judges, accepting questionable evidence, and ignoring the stage of evidence administration. She also criticized the court for considering the "custom law made by the kitchens of lobbying and clientelism" as constitutional.

Why this matters: The allegations of political capture of Albania's Constitutional Court raise serious concerns about the independence and impartiality of the country's judiciary. This case highlights the ongoing challenges in ensuring the rule of law and democratic governance in Albania.

In response to the court's decision, Zhupa stated that the next step will be for the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecution (SPAK) to investigate the alleged political capture of the court. She expressed appreciation to the 35 MPs who signed the request with her and to the public voices who defended the cause.

The Constitutional Court has recently been involved in several high-profile cases, including accepting the Democratic Party's request for Investigative Commissions and developments involving former Minister of Defense Fatmir Mediu and Tirana Mayor Erion Veliaj. Journalist Elvi Fundo has also made a strong appeal to SPAK to investigate the alleged political capture of the court.

Zhupa's criticism of the court's decision on the Butrint law comes amid ongoing concerns about the state of Albania's judiciary. "The next step will be for the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecution (SPAK) to investigate the alleged political capture of the court," Zhupa stated, emphasizing the need for further scrutiny of the court's actions and potential political influences.

Key Takeaways

• Albania's Constitutional Court dismissed PD's request to repeal Butrint law.
• PD deputy Ina Zhupa accused court of political capture, serving govt interests.
• Zhupa alleged court violations, including biased judges and ignoring evidence.
• Allegations of court's political capture raise concerns about judicial independence.
• Zhupa called for SPAK to investigate alleged political capture of the court.