The Justice System's Transformation into a New Ideology in Albanian Politics

If the new justice system has yet to fully incarcerate the entire Albanian political class, it has, nonetheless, successfully brought them into compliance. Its impact on power and politics is becoming increasingly apparent, despite the relatively low number of politicians currently under detention.

In contemporary Albanian politics, the traditional left-wing versus right-wing divide has given way to a new distinction: those who support the Special Prosecution against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) and those who oppose it. Flamur Noka, vicegerent of Sali Berisha, currently under house arrest, has called on Albanian Socialists to rally behind the opposition's protests against SPAK, advocating for Berisha's release. Ilir Meta has also positioned himself in opposition to Albania's new justice system.

While Albanian Socialists still claim the new justice system as their accomplishment, they remain its primary target. The opposition is similarly divided, with factions supporting or opposing the new justice system. Thus, rather than merely punishing corrupt politicians, this justice system has introduced a new dimension to Albanian politics, fuelling ongoing political battles and alliances.

Presently, figures like Berisha, Meta, and a handful of Socialist Party deputies oppose the new justice system. On the other side, the ruling Socialist Party, the official Democratic Party, and a faction of the opposition lend their support. The justice system debate has emerged as the predominant political inspiration.

Justice has evolved into a new ideological battleground for Albanian politics, compelling parties to either embrace or reject corruption. Consequently, political manoeuvres, deals, and attempts to sway Berisha's electorate against him are futile. Ultimately, public opinion revolves around which parties endorse justice and which ones oppose it.

While those backing the new justice system may still harbour corruption, their willingness to face consequences under this new "ideology" garners support from their electorate. Conversely, those in opposition, including those already detained or awaiting investigation and trial, lack prospects to win hearts and minds by openly opposing justice.

One can engage in legal battles, defend oneself, and testify against potential speculations, but outright rejection of the justice system is untenable. Therefore, Flamur Noka's call for Socialists to protest in defense of Berisha may not be entirely unfounded. The conventional left-versus-right dichotomy in Albania has dissolved, leaving an electorate divided between supporters and opponents of the new justice system. However, it remains puzzling why Noka believes Socialists might be against the justice system, given their apparent acquiescence to its influence, even at the expense of Berisha.

Original article: https://www.gazetatema.net/editorial/drejtesia-e-re-po-behet-ideologjia-e-re-i426014