Tirana Municipality launches cleaning operations amid leadership debate

The Tirana Municipality has launched a large-scale cleaning and intervention operation in several problematic areas of the capital, including the Babrrusë riverbank and the Kamza Bridge. Following the assumption of powers by Mayor Erion Veliaj, municipal structures including the General Directorate of Cleaning and Greening, Municipal Police, and Eco Tirana have been deployed to restore order following the summer season.

However, these administrative actions have coincided with intense political debate regarding the city's leadership. Journalist Klodian Tomorri has raised concerns over a potential institutional deadlock, noting that while Veliaj remains in pre-trial detention, he continues to exercise mayoral competencies. Critics argue that the failure to delegate these powers to another official could obstruct essential administrative functions, such as signing documents, processing salaries, and managing economic aid. There are concerns that this situation could be used as leverage against judicial institutions, including SPAK.