Albania formed a government led by Mehdi Frashëri 91 years ago, promising a programme of liberal reforms aimed at modernising the country.

King Zog’s appointment of Frashëri as prime minister received a positive response in the press at the time. His cabinet included figures educated at leading Western universities. Frashëri also served as justice minister, alongside Fuat Asllani as foreign minister, Et’hem Toto as interior minister, Rrok Gera as finance minister, Nush Bushati as education minister, Ndoc Naraçi as public works minister and Dhimitër Berati as national economy minister.

The government, which remained in office until November 7, 1936, presented an ambitious programme covering the economy, education, foreign policy and press freedom. It included 16 draft laws designed to modernise Albania’s economy and finances. The proposed measures aimed to stabilise domestic market prices, curb speculation and build industrial capital in a more liberal social and political environment.

However, the government faced growing political tensions. In March 1936, Frashëri signed a cooperation agreement with Italian dictator Benito Mussolini in Rome. Later that year, Parliament brought down the government, setting a precedent for parliamentary accountability and democratic practice in Albania.