Why is this Important: Rama’s remarks mark a major turning point in the Socialist Party’s approach to SPAK and the justice reform. For years, his government has championed and defended SPAK, even as most of the high-profile prosecutions and arrests targeted Socialist officials. However, the controversial handling of Veliaj’s case—particularly his imprisonment just three months before elections, while opposition leader Sali Berisha was released from house arrest to campaign—has led Rama to accuse SPAK of exceeding its constitutional powers and jeopardizing democracy.

Why is this important: Berisha has declared repeatedly that, if he returns to power, he will dismantle the current justice reform, taking the case to the Venice Commission. He has accused SPAK of being a “criminal organization” and called its head, Altin Dumani, “the leader of organized crime.” However, Berisha’s approval of SPAK’s actions against Veliaj exposes what many critics see as his double standards. Berisha’s past attacks have aimed to discredit SPAK and intimidate it into not focusing too much on cases such as January 21 (involving the killing of protesters) and the Gërdec munitions explosion, where his son, Shkëlzen Berisha, is alleged to be implicated.

Why is this important: Rama’s statement marks his first public response to the arrest of one of his closest allies and a key figure in the Socialist Party’s campaign for the May 11 elections. He expressed concerns that SPAK’s handling of the case may be politically motivated, potentially influencing the election and undermining judicial integrity. Rama underscored his belief that SPAK’s actions are not only targeting Veliaj but also destabilizing the governance of the capital city.

Why is this important: Veliaj’s arrest occurs just weeks before the campaign for the May 11 elections begins, sparking accusations of political interference by SPAK. Veliaj, who leads the Socialist Party’s Tirana campaign, has been a frequent target of political rivals. The timing has raised concerns about SPAK’s impartiality, with critics pointing out inconsistencies in its handling of high-profile cases. Just weeks earlier, the house arrest against opposition leader Sali Berisha was lifted, allowing him to participate fully in the elections. Many believe Veliaj’s arrest is a politically motivated move aimed at disrupting the Socialist Party’s campaign.

Why is this important: Chris LaCivita is a high-profile figure in U.S. politics, and his involvement has surprised many, including Berisha himself who seemed surprised LaCivita had accepted to work for DP. LaCivita, who according to reports in media earned $22 million for his role in Trump’s campaign, brings significant expertise. However, the announcement raised significant questions about the ability of the financially struggling Democratic Party to pay for such expensive his consultancy. Berisha refused to answer media questions about the contract’s details but promised further updates.