Tirana mayor responds to SPAK questioning and anonymous report

Dec 26, 2024 - Tirana’s mayor, Erion Veliaj, has responded to being questioned by the Special Prosecution against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK), following a lengthy five-hour session today. At a city council meeting, Veliaj addressed the anonymous report filed against him, dismissing the claims as politically motivated and fabricated.

Veliaj’s questioning by SPAK focused on ongoing investigations, including the controversial incinerator project in the city. After his appearance before prosecutors, the mayor spoke out against the allegations, which he claimed were based on a false individual named Nesti Angoni.

“I was anonymously reported by a citizen called Nesti Angoni, who does not exist. It feels like we’ve returned to the era of anonymous letters,” Veliaj said at the meeting. "Some people, unable to defeat us in elections, have resorted to making baseless accusations."

He further stated that the anonymous report was an attempt to discredit him and his administration. Veliaj suggested his political opponents, having failed to win through legitimate channels, were now using underhanded tactics.

Veliaj expressed concern over the broader consequences of anonymous reports, warning that they could undermine public trust in the political system. He also emphasized the importance of responding to such tactics.

"Everyone in Tirana knows where I live, where I was before the elections, and where I’ll be until my mandate ends," Veliaj said, asserting his commitment to transparency.

Concluding his statement, the mayor vowed to remain firm against the attacks. “We will be here in May, defeating all your anonymous letters, traps, and howls.”