Rama from Vlora to Theth: War on the occupiers of public spaces, warning for prosecutors who do not act

Albania

Express newspaper

07/07/2025 16:17

The Prime Minister of Albania, Edi Rama, was in Vlora this Monday to inspect the implementation of the ultimatum to vacate public spaces, while on his return he reacted harshly to a case of illegal construction in Theth, where he directly accused the prosecution of inaction.

From the coastal city, Rama emphasized that the action to occupy sidewalks and public spaces is an attempt to establish order and not to harm businesses.

"Nuk has no tendency to stifle businesses. The goal is to harmonize the interests of citizens and businesses. Occupying the sidewalk is unacceptable", said Rama, adding that all service units along the Lungomare will be standardized with a new design.

He also touched on the problems of drinking water supply, blaming "the mismanagement of the Vlora water supply system for several years" as the cause of the aggravated situation. According to him, it has even been found that drinking water is being used for irrigation in an abusive manner.

Another point Rama raised was the resignation of 21 directors in the Vlora municipality.

"Those who have left have shown that they were not suitable for the task. This does not mean that they are permanently excluded, but at this stage no one will be reinstated in the leadership. We will bring in young people who are willing to serve with integrity," he declared.

He reiterated that all appointments at the local and central levels will be made on the basis of merit and civic service.

During his return from Vlora, Rama also reacted to an issue in the tourist area of ​​Theth, where, according to him, a "small tourist village without any building permit".

The head of government directly accused the Shkodra prosecutor, Elsa Gjeli, of inaction and requested the intervention of the Ministry of Justice and the High Prosecutorial Council.

"In Theth, an urban massacre took place in the midst of an extraordinary natural wealth. While the institutions have reacted, the prosecution has decided not to open the case. Ms. Gjeli does not deserve to be paid with Albanian taxes," Rama said in a public communication.

According to him, this is "the culmination of a chain of links of inability or intent to protect private interests over the public interest."