Albania debates the “death” of Lulzim Basha
In an unexpected twist that brought a rare moment of levity to Albania’s tense political scene, an obscure news portal falsely reported the death of Lulzim Basha, former leader of the Democratic Party and current head of the Euro-Atlantic Democrats faction opposed to Sali Berisha. The fabricated news claimed that Basha had perished in a car accident, setting off a wave of reactions that combined indignation with amusement.
Why is this important: In a political scene marked by tension and conflict, the false report offered a brief, humorous interlude. The incident also underscored the absurdity that can sometimes dominate Albanian political discourse, revealing how easily rumors can spiral into a national debate.
Reactions: Lulzim Basha himself swiftly refuted the morbid rumors with a post on Facebook, assuring everyone of his continued existence. It was his reaction more than anything else that that made the obscure announcement into national news:
“I’m alive and well. Perhaps some will be disappointed, but contrary to the fake news circulating, I have not died in a car accident. The people spreading such lies are the same ones who want to destroy Albania. Together, we won’t let them win.”
Prime Minister Edi Rama, never one to miss an opportunity to make fun of his opponents, responded in characteristic manner. Referencing his long-standing joke about Basha’s tendency to “sleep” through his political career, Rama reposted Basha’s denial with the caption, “Don’t lose sleep over this, they’re just jealous of you.”
Social media users were quick to join the fray, generating memes and jokes at Basha’s expense. Comments like “Basha survives his own funeral” and calls for him to “organize a press conference to confirm his existence—live, preferably” reflected the public’s amused response to the bizarre report.
What else: While trivial, the episode highlighted how even well-known public figures can fall victim to misinformation in Albania. The fake news also pointed to underlying frustrations within the Democratic Party. Basha’s assertion that the same forces spreading falsehoods aim to “destroy Albania” appeared to target not just the media but also his political adversaries, illustrating the deep-seated tensions plaguing the opposition.
Go deeper
SPAK Chief defends electoral crime task force amid growing backlash
Published on February 21, 2025
Why is this important: The SPAK strategy is the latest move by the institution to ignite intense political and legal debate over the boundaries of its authority. While some civil society actors have expressed support, the task force—set to deploy prosecutors and investigators in the field during the electoral campaign—has drawn sharp criticism from politicians and jurists who argue it constitutes an overreach into political affairs and an infringement on citizens’ political rights. Prime Minister Edi Rama has openly opposed the initiative, calling it a “lapse in judgment” and insisting that political parties cannot be placed under surveillance during an election period. Others have pointed out that surveillance and prevention fall within the constitutional mandate of the police and intelligence services, not prosecutors.
PM Rama meets Tirana Municipality staff, condemns gathering outside SPAK and pledges full support
Published on February 21, 2025
Why is this important: Both SPAK and the Special Court (GJKKO) reacted to the gathering of Veliaj’s supporters outside their buildings, claiming that such actions intimidate judges and prosecutors. They also accused the police of failing to intervene, while law enforcement responded that it was a spontaneous gathering, not an officially planned protest.
PM lashes out at SPAK about election surveillance
Published on February 20, 2025
Why is this important: SPAK has created a special task force, split into two investigative teams, tasked with preventing and investigating electoral crimes before and after the May 11 elections. These teams will be deployed in all 12 electoral districts of Albania. This on-the-ground investigation approach is unprecedented, as prosecutors will be actively present during the campaign period where political parties hold their activities. While SPAK claims the initiative aims to combat vote-buying, critics argue it positions the anti-corruption body as an actor in the electoral campaign, rather than an impartial observer.