Kasowitz and Mishcon de Reya Highlight Detention Concerns for Tirana Mayor

Mayor Erion Veliaj of Tirana marks a full year in detention by Albania's Special Structure Against Corruption and Organized Crime. His case stands as a primary example of pre-trial detention misuse in Albania, with no evidence of a flight risk, justice obstruction, or potential crime repetition by Veliaj. Over the past year, Veliaj's detention has been highlighted for flawed political persecution and infringement of due process rights.

From February to July last year, Veliaj was detained without formal charges. In September, the Tirana Municipal Council sought his removal, disenfranchising voters. Recently, Veliaj has been denied access to crucial evidence for his defense. SPAK argues his detention continues due to reliance on U.S. counsel, not considering it as due process but punishment.

International attention grows, with 76 mayors across the "B40 Balkan Cities Network" denouncing Veliaj's detention as a threat to democratic governance. Veliaj's case continues to evoke calls for justice system reforms in Albania.