Speaking at the presentation of a new legislative package on territorial protection, the government head said the campaign will move forward “relentlessly,” emphasizing that illegal structures have no place in Albania’s vision for EU membership by 2030.

“This new phase in our long journey toward restoring the rule of law over our territory will not end until not only the buildings but the entire phenomenon of land grabbing is eliminated,” Rama said.

“I know many believe this will pass like a bad summer dream – but it won’t. This effort will continue, persistently and without pause. There is no 2030 Albania in the EU if illegal buildings are allowed to block entire communities from accessing their homes, forcing children, parents, and grandparents to walk through cafés just to reach the street,” he added.

At the same time, Rama acknowledged the need for regulated flexibility in public space usage, especially for the tourism sector.

“We’re fully aware that we are a Mediterranean tourist country, and seating will be allowed outside cafés — but only under a clearly defined set of rules,” he said, adding that “all outdoor seating must follow a national regulation that has already been prepared.”

PM Rama also said that the government will assist businesses seeking to operate within legal guidelines and clear criteria, including those wishing to install awnings or other temporary structures.

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The director of the regional police, the chief of Shkoder police, the head of the police station in the village of Theth, and several subordinates were removed or suspended. The police station chief in Theth has been suspended pending a disciplinary investigation.

Proda criticized police failures to act on unauthorized building in a protected area, despite prior reports to prosecutors, and said disciplinary procedures have also begun against other officers.

“The station chief’s unjustified inaction made clear he can no longer be part of the State Police,” Proda told reporters. “Those who fail to act will not wear the uniform again.”

He warned local police officials they will be held personally responsible for illegal construction, property seizures, and abuses in their areas.

Proda also urged citizens to report police misconduct and vowed to treat double parking as a criminal offense to protect public safety and access.

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The unauthorized additional floors have been confiscated by the state for the public interest.

PM Rama said that the fine, which was imposed on June 24, 2022, was overturned by “a blind” judge at the First Instance Court judge.

“Look at the date when this penalty was imposed by the National Inspectorate for the Protection of the Territory and via the attached document be informed that this fine actually fell to the hands of a blind judge, who audaciously ruled in favour of the construction company, although the law clearly stipulates the amount of the fine for each square meter of illegally-built additional floor,” PM Rama said.

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