Albanian Constitutional Court to Investigate Commissions Amid Political Dispute

The Constitutional Court of Albania has accepted the request of the Democratic Party's parliamentary group to examine the constitutionality of the new law on Investigative Commissions. The court has decided to hold a public plenary session on May 27, 2024 at 10:00 AM to discuss the issue, with the deadline for submitting materials set for May 6, 2024. The court will also consider the request for the suspension of the law during this session.

This development comes amid a political dispute in Albania in April 2024. Democratic deputy Ina Zhupa reacted to the court's decision, stating that it has "put a lid on its political capture and unscrupulous service of government affairs, even when they openly contradict the constitution, public interest, national interest, and the protection of identity and cultural heritage." Zhupa emphasized that the next step will be the involvement of the Special Prosecutor's Office.

Zhupa also highlighted various alleged violations in the constitutional process, including the removal of biased judges, the acceptance of questionable evidence, and the involvement of interested parties. She expressed appreciation to the 35 MPs who signed the request and the public voices in defense of the Butrint concession case.

Why this matters: The Constitutional Court's decision to investigate the law on Investigative Commissions has significant implications for Albania's political landscape and the balance of power between the government and opposition. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for future disputes and shape the country's constitutional framework.

The Democratic Party's parliamentary group chairman, Gazment Bardhi, argued that the law affects the fundamental right of the parliamentary minority to conduct investigations and the Assembly's basic function of effectively controlling the government. With the current parliamentary term in its final year, Bardhi stressed that any delay in reviewing the request would directly harm the investigation process.

As the Constitutional Court prepares to examine the constitutionality of the Investigative Commissions law, the eyes of the nation will be on the proceedings. Zhupa stated, "The Constitutional Court has put a lid on its political capture and unscrupulous service of government affairs, even when they openly contradict the constitution, public interest, national interest, and the protection of identity and cultural heritage." The outcome of this case could have far-reaching consequences for Albania's political future and the integrity of its democratic institutions.

Key Takeaways

• Albania's Constitutional Court accepted request to examine law on Investigative Commissions.
• Court to hold public session on May 27, 2024 to discuss constitutionality of the law.
• Democratic Party claims law violates minority's right to investigate and Assembly's oversight role.
• Outcome could set precedent and impact Albania's political landscape and democratic institutions.
• Democratic MP Ina Zhupa alleges political capture of the court and calls for Special Prosecutor's involvement.