GJKKO orders SPAK to verify evidence in defamation case against DP parliamentary head
The Special Court Against Corruption and Organized Crime (GJKKO) has accepted a request to reopen the defamation case between Democratic Party parliamentary head Gazmend Bardhi and Edmond Sulaj, former police chief of Shkodër. The court instructed SPAK to verify documents linked to Bardhi’s accusations.
Why is this important: The case underscores key issues of defamation, judicial transparency, and alleged ties to organized crime. Bardhi’s public claims that Sulaj was politically appointed through criminal influence have sparked both political and public interest. The court’s decision to reopen the investigation signals increased scrutiny of these allegations.
Context: The hearing took place on Thursday, January 30th, 2025. Edmond Sulaj appeared in person with his lawyer, while Gazmend Bardhi was represented by his lawyers. Sulaj’s attorney argued that Bardhi’s defense claimed to have access to crucial documents that had not been officially presented to the court. He emphasized the need for formal verification of these materials to determine if they referred to Sulaj or a different individual. According to Sulaj’s defense, these documents are essential to establishing the legitimacy—or lack thereof—of Bardhi’s accusations.
In response, Bardhi’s lawyers denied the claim of withheld evidence. He insisted that the documents in question had already been publicly disclosed through media outlets before Bardhi made them part of his case. Braho maintained that the defense had followed proper procedures and acted transparently.
Following these arguments, the judges deliberated briefly and ruled in favor of reopening the investigation. The court directed SPAK to verify whether the evidence cited by Bardhi is part of the “Metamorfoza” case file but instructed that this should not interfere with other ongoing investigations.
Background: The case originates from a heated parliamentary debate where Bardhi accused Sulaj of being installed as police chief with support from organized crime. Bardhi cited alleged SKY ECC surveillance data as evidence. Sulaj rejected these claims, asserting that the surveillance records do not match his period in office. He subsequently filed a defamation lawsuit, alleging that Bardhi’s statements had damaged his reputation.
Next steps: The court scheduled the next hearing for February 14th, 2025, at 09:00.
Go deeper
Trump’s aid suspension raises concerns for Albania’s anti-corruption reforms and SPAK
Published on January 30, 2025
Why is this important: The suspension could hinder progress on key reforms and anti-corruption initiatives. There is growing public perception that the new U.S. administration may not be as supportive of Albania’s justice reform as its predecessor. Many are closely watching to see whether the “non-grata” designation of former Prime Minister Sali Berisha will be revoked, which would signal the administration’s stance on corruption and accountability. However, the surprising suspension of aid is already encouraging optimism among those opposed to SPAK and justice reform efforts. Historically, U.S. aid has been instrumental in providing Albania with both financial and political support in its fight against organized crime and high-level corruption. SPAK, which has relied on American training and investigative tools, could face delays in investigations and weakened authority in politically sensitive cases without continued U.S. backing.
Berisha’s cynical pirouettes on LGBT issues
Published on January 30, 2025
Editorial
Democrats push new gender law as part of de-Sorosization campaign
Published on January 30, 2025
Why is this important: Albania’s transgender community is extremely small, and the recognition of more than two genders has never been part of any formal or public discussion. The Democratic Party’s initiative appears disconnected from reality and from the actual concerns of Albanians. Similarly irrelevant in political or electoral terms are Berisha’s ongoing attacks on George Soros.