Former President Meta urges supporters to avoid protests ahead of appeal hearing

Tomorrow at 10:00 AM, the Special Court of Appeals (GJKKO) will review former President Ilir Meta’s appeal to change his detention status. In a striking departure from his earlier confrontational stance, Meta has issued a calm and measured statement from his cell in Tirana, urging supporters not to protest.

Why is this important: Meta’s call for restraint differs sharply from his previous attacks on SPAK and the justice system. It also contrasts significantly with the behavior of his ally, co-opposition leader Sali Berisha, who has continued to launch virulent criticisms against SPAK and even suggested abolishing the justice reform entirely. Meta’s new approach may signal an awareness that aggression will be ineffective and that he must seriously address the accusations against him. Alternatively, it could reflect a realization that he lacks the same unwavering core of radical supporters that Berisha enjoys. Meta’s arrest was not accompanied with any meaningful protests.

What did he say: From detention, Meta addressed members and sympathizers of the Freedom Party, requesting them to refrain from protesting. He stated, “Any unauthorized or spontaneous gatherings outside the court are useless and harmful. I base my legal battle on presenting the whole truth to the court, exposing the lack of evidence in this purely political process. I urge you to distance yourselves from any protest initiatives.”

Meta emphasized that protests would only distract the public from the core issues and insisted his focus remains on disproving what he claims are baseless accusations.

Context: Meta has long criticized SPAK, but his sudden pivot to discouraging protests and emphasizing a legal defense marks a notable shift. His message indicates an attempt to distance himself from disruptive tactics, possibly recognizing the urgency of a more pragmatic response as his legal challenges mount.