Albania prepares to honour journalist Artur Zheji

TIRANA, Aug 24 (TemA) – Albania will hold a memorial service Monday for Artur Zheji, the journalist, analyst and cultural figure whose sudden death on Saturday at 64 has been met with tributes across the political spectrum.

Prime Minister Edi Rama described him as a “friend of other times,” while President Bajram Begaj called Zheji “one of the most active and moderating voices in Albania’s public debate.” Parliament Speaker Elisa Spiropali said he was a “distinctive voice and talented pen that will be deeply missed.”

Opposition leaders also paid respect. Former prime minister Sali Berisha recalled him as a good friend and publicist, while MP Ervin Salianji said Albania had lost “a wise, free-thinking intellectual.”

The outpouring of tributes ahead of Monday’s ceremony underlines the weight of Zheji’s legacy. Colleagues and admirers described him as a fearless commentator who gave depth to national debate and left a mark on both journalism and culture.