SPAK chief: Justice reform is hitting impunity hard

Tirana, December 16, 2024 - Albania’s justice reform is delivering real results, according to SPAK chief Altin Dumani. Speaking at a conference reflecting on the work of the Independent Qualification Commission (KPK) and the Institution of Public Commissioners (IKP), Dumani declared that progress has been made in dismantling old ways of thinking and holding the powerful accountable.

“Impunity is being taken down, step by step,” Dumani said. “The reform has brought significant change, giving the country a justice system that the public can trust.”

The seven-year reform has seen institutions like the KPK and KPA vet judges and prosecutors, rooting out corruption and reshaping Albania’s judiciary. Dumani praised their efforts, saying they’ve laid the foundation for a justice system with integrity.

But challenges remain. Dumani pointed to the heavy workloads faced by prosecutors and unresolved cases that require urgent attention. From the end of this year, SPAK will take over all unfinished files from the Public Commissioners, ensuring these cases don’t stall.

“The walls of a new justice system are in place,” Dumani said. “Now, it’s about breaking down the old mindset and moving forward.”

SPAK, with its 20 prosecutors, is a key part of the reform. Dumani stressed its role in cementing accountability and helping Albania meet EU standards.