The Socialist Party becomes a shield for corruption / Rama unveils initiative to protect himself from suspension

The Socialist Party has formally moved to shield corruption.

At a meeting of the party’s parliamentary group, Prime Minister Edi Rama unveiled an initiative that would protect him from suspension in the event of investigations or requests for precautionary measures by the Special Prosecution Office.

The proposal followed what was described as a need to protect Belinda Balluku, but its apparent aim is to safeguard Rama himself.

Justice Minister Ulsi Manja stated that several officials would be protected from suspension, though they are seen as a cover to ensure Rama’s own protection.

Referring to the Electoral Code, Manja noted that municipal council members, mayors and members of parliament are currently exempt from this provision.

According to Manja, the new initiative would expand that circle to include seven additional senior officials: the President of the Republic, the Ombudsperson, the Prime Minister, the Deputy Prime Minister and ministers, members of the Constitutional Court, and the Chair of the State Supreme Audit.

Brussels’ reaction to the proposal remains to be seen, as the European Union has taken a firm stance against shielding senior officials from investigations into corruption.

In this way, Edi Rama is also hindering the country’s path toward EU integration.