Erion Veliaj, the Mayor of Tirana, addressed the City Council today regarding his recent summoning by the Special Anti-Corruption Structure (SPAK). Veliaj asserted that the accusations against him are part of a politically motivated trap, based on an anonymous letter allegedly submitted by a non-existent individual, local media say.
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| Erion Veliaj at SPAK offices |
Veliaj disclosed that the complaint was filed under the name Nesti Angoni, a person he claims does not appear in the national civil registry. “I have been informed that I have been anonymously denounced by a citizen who doesn’t exist. Nesti Angoni, a fictional character, with an anonymous letter—this is a fabricated trap. We all know who and what this style represents,” Veliaj said, emphasizing the political undertones of the situation.
He also highlighted his cooperation with authorities, citing his access to the civil registry as mayor. “As the mayor, I have full access to the civil registry and have been fully cooperative. Everyone in Tirana knows where I live, where I was before the elections, and where I am now. I am part of that rare breed of politicians who do not disparage SPAK when it doesn’t suit them. I have never resorted to anonymous letters because I don’t belong to the generation of anonymous accusers,” Veliaj stated.
Despite the allegations and ongoing investigations, Veliaj reaffirmed his commitment to serving the citizens of Tirana. “We will be here, and in May we will defeat all the anonymous letters, traps, and the cries of the hyenas,” he declared.
The mayor appeared at SPAK’s offices at 8:55 a.m. on Thursday and left after approximately five hours. Veliaj did not provide comments to the media following his questioning.
Reports suggest that SPAK’s inquiry involves financial investigations into Veliaj’s family members. However, no official details have been disclosed regarding the nature of the probe.
Veliaj’s statements reflect an ongoing narrative of political tensions and controversies in Albania, with SPAK frequently at the center of high-profile cases aimed at combating corruption and abuse of power. His defiant tone suggests that he is gearing up for a political showdown, as he continues to frame the allegations as baseless and politically charged.