SPAK has submitted a second request to the Albanian Parliament’s Presidency seeking the removal of the parliamentary immunity of MP Belinda Balluku. Although Parliament has not publicly announced the start of the required procedures, the request is reportedly aimed at preventing any obstruction of justice. In addition to a travel ban, SPAK is expected to renew its request for Balluku’s detention.
The Special Anti-Corruption Structure has reportedly brought new allegations of corruption and money laundering within the framework of an organized criminal group. The new case file is said to include the existing charges related to violations of equality in public tenders.
The Council on Rules, Mandates, and Immunities is expected to review the request and, after examining the new case file, hold a hearing with Balluku before submitting a recommendation to Parliament for a vote on lifting her mandate. The first request was delayed and ultimately rejected by the Socialist majority, allegedly on the orders of Prime Minister Edi Rama. According to the article, this led to a critical IBAR report, which described the refusal to lift Balluku’s immunity as an obstruction of justice.
As part of the expanded investigation, prosecutors have reportedly carried out numerous searches involving Balluku’s associates, family members, and several businessmen. Last week, authorities seized a villa in Dhërmi. Igli Tare has reportedly been formally charged, while Pandeli Carapuli remains under investigation on money laundering allegations.
According to the report, the investigation could eventually extend to Prime Minister Edi Rama. Alleged message interceptions are said to indicate his involvement in providing economic favors related to certain tenders and services benefiting businessmen described as close to him.
The article further claims that both Brussels and Washington have emphasized that judicial independence is non-negotiable and that the government must not interfere with the justice system. It describes an ongoing conflict involving alleged pressure tactics and intercepted communications between Rama and Balluku, portraying it as a major confrontation with SPAK. The Special Structure is also reportedly handling several other significant cases.
