TIRANA, Oct 27 /ATA/- By Maela Marini/ Socialist Party MP Fatmir Xhafaj told Parliament today that leaking investigative secrets to the media is unacceptable and should be addressed through new legal amendments.
Speaking during the General Prosecutor’s presentation, Xhafaj commended the work of criminal justice institutions, noting that the Justice Reform has elevated their role by granting them a new constitutional status within the country’s judicial framework.
Xhafaj remarked: “The report and the political stance toward these institutions reflect our commitment to the rule of law. Prosecutors handle a high volume of case and face pressures from all sides. They stand at the forefront in combating crime, corruption, and any legal violations. That is why I have strongly backed measures to reinforce their professional status, ensuring their independence, career progression, and protection of institutional integrity.”
Xhafaj pointed out that the prosecution system has seen an increase in proactive investigations targeting crimes that impact public interest.
He also noted that recent high-profile cases, such as the investigations of former French President Sarkozy and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu—both under investigation while free—offer important lessons on the application of the rule of law.
Xhafaj emphasized that the common thread in these cases is the clear message that no one is above the law, and that the independence of institutions is paramount, regardless of political power.
“Moreover, they demonstrate professionalism and a sense of humanity in criminal investigation and adjudication,” he added.
According to Xhafaj, “The Justice Reform has fundamentally transformed the philosophy of the Albanian criminal justice system.”
He added, “The Prosecutor’s Office has evolved from a centralized, hierarchical system to a modern model of internal and external independence for prosecutors. This has been a decisive step in changing the culture of impunity and ensuring equality before the law, which has also increased public trust in the justice system.”
However, Xhafaj warned that “failing to closely examine the challenges and problems inherent in this process would be a grave mistake.”
He emphasized, “Independence alone is not enough. Without a strong emphasis on accountability and responsibility in the exercise of their duties, the constitutional guarantee of prosecutors’ independence could backfire.”
Xhafaj called for uniform standards in law enforcement during investigations and strict adherence to procedural safeguards in criminal proceedings, among other measures.
He further stated that “it is unacceptable to use the media to reveal parts of a criminal file or investigative secrets. In some instances, unethical conduct in dealing with the administration and business community regarding certain cases has created a tense and intimidating environment, which could negatively impact the business climate.”
Xhafaj also highlighted the high number of pre-trial detention measures compared to the EU and regional averages. “While Belgium has 10 people per 100,000 inhabitants, we have 94.6 per 100,000. Albania also has one of the highest pre-trial detention rates in Europe,” he added.
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