EU Ambassador defends SPAK, says the justice reform needs more time

December 14, 2024 - Silvio Gonzato, the European Union’s Ambassador to Albania, defended the Special Prosecution Office (SPAK) in a televised interview, responding to opposition claims that the institution is politically biased.

Gonzato described SPAK head Altin Dumani as a person of high integrity, emphasizing that Dumani is simply doing his job without any political bias.

“There are mayors from both the left and right who are under investigation,” said Gonzato. “I don’t see any political bias in SPAK’s actions. Mr. Dumani is doing his job, and we must allow him to continue without interference.”

The Ambassador also pointed out that SPAK operates within the rule of law and follows established procedures. He stressed that the European Union's justice reform in Albania included safeguards to protect judicial institutions from political interference, adding, “I don’t understand how SPAK’s work could be controlled by the government.”

Gonzato acknowledged the heavy workload faced by SPAK, noting that the institution is still in its early stages. “SPAK has only been operating for five years, and we must give it time to consolidate and deliver results,” he said. “Sometimes people expect too much, but SPAK has made significant progress in tackling organized crime.”

He also praised SPAK’s cooperation with European law enforcement agencies, Europol, Interpol, and international partners to combat drug trafficking.

The Ambassador further addressed concerns about the vetting process, stating that Albania’s judicial system needs internal mechanisms to ensure accountability. He emphasized the importance of maintaining judicial independence while holding judicial staff accountable.

“We must establish systems that ensure the integrity of judicial personnel,” said Gonzato. “It’s crucial that judicial institutions have their own internal mechanisms to monitor accountability.”

He also pointed to agencies like HIDACI, which monitor civil servant assets, as playing an important role in ensuring transparency and accountability within the judicial system.

In conclusion, Gonzato urged patience, stating that while expectations are high, SPAK needs time and support to fully establish itself as a key institution in Albania’s justice system.