In Albanian politics, it seems that Artificial Intelligence is already solving the problem of physical absence. Erion Veliaj has been in Durrës detention since 2025, but this has not prevented the mayor of Tirana from returning to "duty", at least virtually.
When it comes to the political message and propaganda of the day, the bars of the cell don't seem to be an obstacle for the mayor. Where Veliaj can't be, his AI-created version can now be.
The mayor himself admits this in a message published on social media.
"I have been held hostage for 20 months and I can only say this greeting with artificial intelligence," says Veliaj.
Through his virtual version, he returns to the administration's balance sheet, talking about the schools, kindergartens and nurseries built during his tenure as mayor of Tirana. But Veliaj is not satisfied with just the balance sheet. Even from his cell, the list of promises continues.
"I made another commitment, which I will never forget: food in schools. They really locked me up and ambushed me, but I will keep this promise," he declares, adding that he will "continue to work even from my cell."
Thus, Albania, which recently introduced the virtual minister "Diella", now also has the virtual mayor of the capital. With one significant difference, Veliaj is a real mayor, but who can currently address citizens in person and voice only through technology.
And here the paradox becomes complete, while Veliaj says he is "locked in", his virtual version continues to appear before citizens, take stock of the work and make promises for the future.
So, if you thought you were saved from his appearances on screens and social networks, Veliaj has found a way to return for the propaganda of the day.
