Albanian opposition leader Berisha accuses PM Rama of tender fraud

Sali Berisha, leader of Albania’s Democratic Party, has accused Prime Minister Edi Rama of manipulating facts, spreading falsehoods and profiting from illegal public tender contracts. Berisha cited the European Tender assessment, which shows a sharp decline in Albania’s transparency scores and a rise in tender awards to firms linked to the government, alleging that Rama’s inner circle has secured hundreds of secret tenders and received over 800 state‑funded payments in a single year.

Berisha also condemned Rama’s remarks at a conference in Tallinn, where the prime minister likened Albanians to Taliban members, calling the comparison offensive and unfounded. While claiming the opposition backs EU integration for geopolitical reasons, Berisha emphasized that Albania still fails key accession criteria. A second article echoed the accusations, focusing on alleged protection of Linda Rama, the prime minister’s wife, in investigations over tender irregularities and alleged criminal ties.

The dispute highlights ongoing political tensions over corruption, public procurement and Albania’s EU accession prospects.