Shkodër Mayor responds to resignation rumors
Photo: Benet Beci
Shkodër Mayor Benet Beci addressed media rumors suggesting he is under investigation and has resigned from his position. Beci, who made history in 2023 as the first Socialist mayor of Shkodër, clarified these claims while inspecting ongoing work on the city’s drainage collector in Perash.
Why is this important: Shkodër has historically been a stronghold of the right since the fall of communism, following decades of persecution under the Communist regime. Beci’s victory was monumental, breaking a longstanding political tradition. The rumors raised public concern over stability in city leadership and risk undermining trust and slowing progress on critical projects.
Context:
- Media speculation: Beci was asked about reports circulating in the media regarding his supposed resignation and a recent appearance at the Special Structure Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK). He confirmed that he was indeed called to SPAK but emphasized that his participation was routine and that he provided explanations as required.
- Refuting resignation claims: “We continue working. Of course, I appeared and gave my explanations as normal. Anyone who wants to engage in gossip is free to do so, but what matters is that we continue our investments and projects. Shkodër is unstoppable on its path,” Beci stated, dismissing claims that he has stepped down from his role.
- SPAK appearance: On November 1, 2024, Beci appeared at SPAK but declined to give specific details to the media about the reasons behind his summoning, stating only that he would speak when the time is right.
Background: Beci’s election as the first Socialist mayor of Shkodër in 2023 was a historic shift in a city that had consistently voted for right-leaning parties since Albania’s transition from communism. The city holds a symbolic place in Albanian political history, having experienced severe persecution under the Communist regime. In 2019, during local elections boycotted by the opposition, the Socialist candidate was disqualified for violating anti-discrimination laws due to a past arrest in Italy as a student. Beci’s eventual victory marked a significant political change and has brought heightened scrutiny to his tenure.
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