Erion Veliaj’s detention violates his human rights, say Mayor’s international legal team

One day after Albania’s Supreme Court upheld the pretrial detention of Tirana Mayor Erion Veliaj, his international legal team issued a strong statement condemning the ruling as a violation of basic human rights and due process.

Why is this important: Veliaj has now spent five months in detention without being formally charged. His international legal team argues that this violates the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), which prohibits arbitrary detention and requires that pretrial arrest be both necessary and proportionate. The case has sparked renewed criticism of double standards in the justice system, particularly when opposition figures accused of more serious offenses remain free.

Context: Veliaj, arrested on February 10 as part of a corruption probe by SPAK, is suspected of abuse of office, money laundering, and undeclared assets—allegations that also involve his wife, who remains under a lighter security measure. Despite repeated appeals, the courts have upheld his detention.

Now, international law firms Kasowitz LLP (U.S.) and Mishcon de Reya (U.K.), representing Veliaj, argue that Albania is in breach of its obligations under the ECHR.

“Keeping Mayor Veliaj in custody without a charge and without exploring clear, reasonable alternatives violates principles of due process and the rule of law,” said Daniel Fetterman of Kasowitz LLP. Ben Brandon of Mishcon de Reya added: “We are seriously concerned that this detention is incompatible with the European Convention on Human Rights.”

The lawyers also indicated they are preparing to escalate the matter internationally and are reviewing all available legal avenues.

Next steps: Veliaj remains in Durrës prison under SPAK’s ongoing investigation. His legal team is awaiting the full reasoning behind the Supreme Court’s ruling and plans to challenge the legality of his detention in international forums if necessary.

The case continues to raise questions about the consistency of Albania’s justice reform. While Veliaj is jailed without formal charges, other high-profile figures like Sali Berisha’s son-in-law—co-accused in a SPAK case—have been granted release. Critics argue that the justice system is harsher on ruling party figures while showing restraint toward opposition leaders known for vocally attacking judicial institutions.