Four candidates qualify for SPAK leadership post

The High Prosecutorial Council (KLP) has approved the list of four eligible candidates for the position of head of the Special Anti-Corruption Structure (SPAK). They are Adnan Xholi, Klodian Braho, Doloreza Musabelliu, and Ervin Gogaj.

Why is this important: The current SPAK chief’s term ends in mid-December, and a successor must be chosen before then. The new director will serve a three year, nonrenewable term, in line with the justice reform framework that also limits SPAK prosecutors to one nine-year term without reappointment.

The outgoing SPAK head had sought constitutional amendments that would allow him to run for a second term, arguing for continuity in leadership. However, the proposal was rejected by all political forces. Behind the scenes, he reportedly lobbied for support from EU missions OPDAT and EURALIUS, which assist and monitor SPAK’s work — but those efforts failed.

Context: The KLP approved the shortlist with 10 votes in favor, paving the way for the final stage of the selection process. The four candidates — all current SPAK prosecutors with extensive experience in handling high-profile corruption and organized crime cases — will now face public interviews and detailed evaluations.

The KLP’s vetting will assess each candidate’s professional record, integrity, leadership vision, and ability to steer one of Albania’s most scrutinized institutions.

What else: SPAK, created under the 2016 Justice Reform, has become a central pillar of Albania’s anti-corruption efforts, prosecuting senior officials and organized crime figures. The upcoming leadership change is therefore seen as a critical moment for maintaining both institutional independence and public trust.