Special anti-corruption commission discusses independent institution oversight mechanisms

At its latest meeting, the Special Anti-Corruption Commission discussed potential legal mechanisms to strengthen the oversight of Albania’s independent institutions. Commission Chair Fatmir Xhafaj proposed that, given Parliament’s limited capacity to track whether institutions implement its recommendations, private consultants could be contracted to conduct ongoing monitoring.

Why is this important: Currently, all independent constitutional institutions are required to report their activities to Parliament annually. Lawmakers then issue recommendations that should be implemented within a year. However, whether these recommendations are followed remains at the discretion of each institution, as Parliament lacks the resources to monitor their compliance. Hiring independent consultants to conduct year-round assessments would provide Parliament with clearer oversight while ensuring that institutions submit objective reports rather than simply highlighting their successes.

Context: According to Xhafaj, the legal expertise developed during the justice reform process and within the Special Commission itself demonstrates that independent assessments of institutions can be both feasible and effective.

Another proposal under discussion includes changes to the law on political parties and parliamentary representation. Xhafaj argued that Albania’s 140-member Parliament is disproportionately large for a voting population of 2.4 million and suggested a cap on the number of terms MPs can serve, to prevent lifetime political careers in a system where party leaders, rather than voters, effectively decide candidate lists.

On the other hand, Xhafaj suggested that mayors should not face term limits, as they are directly elected by the public. He pointed out that many European countries allow mayors to serve indefinitely as long as they maintain public support.

Additionally, the Commission considered reforms to the selection process for leaders of independent institutions, such as the Ombudsman. Instead of political appointments, it was suggested that a broader representation of institutions and civil society should be involved in nominating candidates to ensure integrity and impartiality.

What’s next: The Commission is expected to refine these proposals in the coming weeks, with further debates likely on the feasibility of independent oversight mechanisms and the restructuring of parliamentary representation. If implemented, these reforms could significantly alter Albania’s institutional accountability framework.