National Association of Judges responds to Rama: Measures against protesters are determined by the courts, not politics

The National Association of Judges of the Republic of Albania has responded to comments by Prime Minister Edi Rama regarding court decisions concerning detained protesters. It expressed concern about the way the statements were directed at judges and about the possible consequences for the independence of the justice system.

In its public response, the association condemned the violence reported during the recent protests, including attacks on the buildings of the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal of General Jurisdiction, as well as arson and the destruction of court files. According to the association, these actions harm justice institutions and their normal operations. It stressed that the state has a responsibility to protect the courts and judicial staff.

The organization also raised concerns about the failure of State Police structures to take the necessary preventive and protective measures, calling for effective action to ensure the safety of judges and institutions. It also described as problematic the prime minister’s public comments about judges who have reviewed or are reviewing prosecutors’ requests to impose security measures on protesters.

The association said that court decisions may be legitimately criticized, but that criticism must not turn into attacks on individuals, undermine the legitimacy of judges, or exert public pressure on their work. It stressed that only the courts can assess the legality and proportionality of security measures, based on the law, the evidence and the specific circumstances of each case.

The National Association of Judges called on state institutions and political representatives to act with restraint and respect the independence of the judiciary. It also called for immediate and effective measures to protect the courts and their employees, as well as an end to any pressure on judges over the decisions they make.

The association expressed its support for judges who perform their duties with independence, impartiality and integrity. Without safe and independent courts, it said, neither credible justice for citizens nor the rule of law can be guaranteed.