In parallel with the heated debates in Parliament, Albanians saw another surreal “live”: Edi Rama, not as Prime Minister, but as a central figure at the head of a large square table, facing the highest representatives of the justice system. The scene that was broadcast publicly created the impression of an unequal relationship between the Executive and the Justice.
The Prime Minister stated that he would build a building for the “Justice Pole” in Tirana, but not before five years, adding that no additional funds should be requested for salary increases or new recruitments into the system. These statements were perceived as conditional, as if the financing of justice was an act of personal will and not an institutional obligation of the state.
At one point, Rama also told an anecdote about China after the death of Mao Zedong, implying that “you have to wait.” The final message that was perceived was that justice must also wait — or rather, wait for its decision.
Such a situation raises serious questions about the balance of powers in a functioning democracy. The executive cannot and should not place the judiciary in an inferior position or dependent on the will of an individual.
Five years is a long time, especially when the needs of the justice system are urgent, not only in Tirana, but throughout Albania. Buildings and working conditions for judges, prosecutors and administration are essential for the normal functioning of the system.
Moreover, the justice budget is financed by the taxes of all citizens – both the majority and the opposition. Therefore, discussions about investments in justice must be inclusive and transparent.
The parliamentary opposition should demand:
That justice centers be built not only in Tirana, but throughout the country, according to the real needs of the system.
So that investments are accelerated and not postponed for a future mandate.
That negotiations and discussions between the State and Justice are not personalized, but rather conducted through a joint Majority-Opposition-Expert civil society commission, which represents the interests of all citizens.
In 2016, justice reform was promoted as a historic step. But reform is not just about changing laws; it also requires infrastructure, human resources, and sustainable financing. Governing means predicting.
The fate of a nation's justice cannot depend on the will or mood of an individual. The balance of powers is the foundation of democracy.
