Tirana mayor rejects claims of fleeing Albania, fires back at opposition leader

Dec 28, 2024 - Tirana’s Mayor Erion Veliaj has rejected accusations by opposition leader Sali Berisha, who alleged that the mayor had fled Albania under mysterious circumstances. Veliaj said that he is currently in the United States on an official visit, accusing Berisha of spreading baseless rumors to mislead the public.

Berisha had earlier claimed that Veliaj had “disappeared,” suggesting he was avoiding accountability. In a fiery social media post, Veliaj dismissed the claims, emphasizing that his trip to the U.S. was for pre-arranged meetings in his capacity as the city’s mayor.

Veliaj defends his record

In his statement, Veliaj took aim at Berisha, accusing him of attempting to deflect from his own controversies. “I’m not fleeing Albania, Sali,” Veliaj wrote, adding, “I returned from the U.S. 20 years ago to help my country rise from the chaos you created.”

He further criticized Berisha for alleged hypocrisy, pointing out how the opposition leader condemns investigations by the Special Anti-Corruption Structure (SPAK) when they involve opposition figures but supports them when targeting government officials.

Veliaj also addressed concerns about ongoing legal scrutiny. “I respect the rule of law and will address any questions from the judiciary in due course. Unlike you, Sali, I trust the process and won’t run away from justice.”

Mayor promises swift return

Veliaj reassured citizens he would return to Tirana within two days, insisting that his trip is strictly professional. “I’ll be back shortly to continue my work for the city,” he said, while also accusing Berisha of being isolated and unable to leave Albania due to international restrictions.