Council seeks mayor’s release for budget hearings

TIRANA — Tirana’s city council has formally asked Albania’s anti-corruption prosecutors and prison authorities to allow Mayor Erion Veliaj to attend budget hearings in person, despite the legal measures currently restricting his freedom.

In a written request, the council argues that the mayor’s physical presence is required by law during consultations on the city’s 2026 budget, a process it describes as essential for democratic oversight and institutional cooperation.

The move highlights growing tension between local governance and judicial proceedings, as Albania continues high-profile corruption investigations involving senior officials. Authorities have not yet responded to the request.