No consensus on conclusions of parliamentary inquiry on TIMS System
The parliamentary inquiry into the TIMS system (Total Information Management System) has concluded without bipartisan consensus. There will be no joint report after to reflect the conclusions of the 4-month inquiry. Instead the Socialists will present their findings in the official report, while the opposition’s report will be presented as a minority view.
Why is this relevant
The closing of the parliamentary inquiry without a unified report underscores the deep political divisions over the TIMS system’s management and its implications for national security. The upcoming plenary session is expected to further amplify these contrasting perspectives on the matter.
Context
The parliamentary commission of inquiry was initiated by the Democratic Party with the aim of investigating potential interference in the State Police’s TIMS system, allegedly granting criminal groups access in exchange for financial benefits. The commission summoned the Minister of Interior, the General Director of the State Police, and the IT Director of the State Police to testify.
The official document compiled by the majority report confirms that there are issues with the TIMS system, although not necessarily related to border control procedures and recognizes the need for legislative changes, which they propose should be approved within 6 months.
The Democrats on the other hand, accuse Minister of Interior Taulant Balla, former IT Director of the Police Ervin Muça, and State Police Chief Muhamet Rrumbullaku of misusing TIMS data. They allege that criminal groups accessed TIMS data to track opponents’ movements abroad, orders for arrest, detainments, or search warrants from law enforcement agencies, deportations, and other restrictive measures by foreign states. According to the Democrats’ report, these groups allegedly used the data to trace individuals targeted for physical elimination or other nefarious plans. The opposition calls for the Police to undergo an international audit of their IT department.
Despite making their way into the minority view, none of these accusations were proven during the parliamentary inquiry and remained unsubstantiated despite 4 months of investigations by MPs.
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