Why is this important: Lulzim Basha has been largely absent from Albania’s political scene in recent months, making only occasional comments on current events. However, his reappearance on the political stage could prove significant with the upcoming elections in view. Once a trusted ally of Sali Berisha, Basha rose to prominence under Berisha’s leadership, holding key government positions and eventually becoming Chairman of the Democratic Party. Their relationship deteriorated when Basha asked Berisha to step aside after the United States designated Berisha as non grata. Berisha, insisting that the party dedicate all its efforts to supporting him against what he called a conspiracy, expelled Basha, causing a major rift within the party.

Why is this important: Dako was an important figure within the Socialist Party, having served as the Mayor of Durrës, one of the country’s largest municipalities, for three consecutive terms. He was also the political leader of the Socialist Party in the Durrës district and was considered a close associate of Prime Minister Edi Rama. Dako was among the first high-profile officials to be investigated by SPAK.

Why is this important: Berisha’s insults are part of his ongoing campaign to discredit the judicial authorities he claims are unjustly targeting him. Given the intensity of his rhetoric, many expected the High Council to respond by explicitly calling him out and demanding action to curb his repeated behavior. However, the Council did nothing of the sort.

Why is this important: The sterilization concession was one of the landmark events in the government’s efforts to reform the health system and provide quality service. It requires the contractor, an Italian company co-owned by Rapaj – who holds a 40% stake – to ensure that all public hospitals and surgical clinics receive proper sterilization of medical equipment. Before this agreement, public hospitals faced alarmingly high rates of post-operative infections due to substandard sterilization. While many medical professionals have praised the improvements since the concession’s implementation, the Special Structure Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) maintains that there were instances of abuse and corruption in the awarding of the contract and began investigating. 

Why is this important: The last time the opposition Democrats approved a budget was in 2012. It was half the size of the upcoming 2025 budget. However, Democrats argue that despite its size the 2025 budget fails to support vulnerable groups and the middle class. They have submitted two amendments to address these shortcoming: one proposing a special status for miners and another calling for the establishment of a living wage.