Journalist Arbër Hitaj has called for the resignation of Justice Minister Toni Gogu following his meeting with Erion Veliaj at the Fier prison. According to Hitaj, the minister did not go to verify the mayor’s conditions, but to convey a message that Veliaj claims was communicated to him on behalf of Edi Rama. Hitaj also raised doubts about how the meeting was conducted, saying that measures may have been taken to turn off the cameras.
He claimed that the Director General of Prisons, although she had resigned, had returned to her post and had signed the transfer of Veliaj. For this, he requested the intervention of SPAK and a full investigation of the case. During the discussion, Hitaj also made a warning about what he described as an ominous scenario for the mayor. “I have my own ominous prediction, that Rama may also lock Mr. Veliaj up in a psychiatric ward. I hope it doesn’t come true”, he said.
The journalist rejected claims that Veliaj may have organized the protests, arguing that an imprisoned person does not have the organizational capacity to coordinate such movements. He also brought up earlier accusations of the involvement of Iranians, Russians, supporters of Albin Kurti and ANTIFA in the protests in Albania.
“A prime minister who threatens students with prison and fines, threatens educators, journalists and politicians. He will put all of Albania in prison and be outside himself, the chief warden. Prime Minister Edi Rama is speaking like the director of prisons”, Hitaj stated.