The head of Albania’s Special Anti-Corruption Structure (SPAK), Klodjan Braho, stated that the vetting process cannot be considered a guarantee or form of “immunity” for judges and prosecutors in the future, emphasizing that any potential acts of corruption will remain subject to criminal investigation.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the transitional re-evaluation process, Braho said that the confirmation of magistrates in office relates only to a past period and does not exempt them from legal responsibility for future actions.
“The confirmation of prosecutors and judges during the re-evaluation process pertains to a past period. This confirmation cannot serve as ‘immunity’ for the future. The vetting process has concluded, but the standards established for asset verification, integrity checks, and professional evaluation will continue to apply,” Braho said.
He stressed that public trust in the justice system is not permanent but must be earned and maintained through professionalism, independence, and respect for the law in every decision-making process.
According to the SPAK chief, no judge or prosecutor enjoys immunity from criminal prosecution for corrupt acts committed after the completion of the vetting process.
“Any potential corrupt conduct by prosecutors and judges is, and will remain, under SPAK’s scrutiny whenever circumstances justify the initiation of criminal proceedings,” he emphasized.
Braho added that the integrity of the justice system cannot be protected solely through declarative standards, but through professional investigations and equal accountability before the law.
The SPAK chief also noted that Albania’s Justice Reform created new institutions with significant responsibilities, stressing that the challenge now lies in exercising those responsibilities with integrity, seriousness, and full respect for the Constitution and the law.
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