In a meeting with the Democrats in Dibër, Sali Berisha harshly attacked publisher Irfan Hysenbelliu, accusing him of media outlets owned by him operating under the influence of Prime Minister Edi Rama.
According to Berisha, the fact that News24 television, the BalkanWeb portal and the Panorama newspaper have broadcast Ervin Salianji's activities is proof that "instructions were given by Rama."
In his speech, Berisha used strong tones to describe the relationship between the media owner and political developments in the Democratic Party, stating that support for Salianji was motivated by interests in getting closer to power.
He mocked the intensity of media coverage, saying that "16 news stories were published in four hours about Saliani," while comparing this to the treatment of international figures like Donald Trump.
Berisha also recalled today the former leader of the Democratic Party, Lulzim Basha, claiming that he was Rama's hostage under pressure through criminal cases, including the one known as the "Toyota Yaris" and another that linked him to businessman Muzi. According to him, these files were used to exercise political control and impose agreements, while accusing Basha of not denouncing the government due to a collaboration with Rama.
Meanwhile, it is worth remembering that a year ago the government intervened against Hysenbelliu's media, leading to the removal of News24 from its building, a serious episode of the clash between the government and the media and reflected in every international report on Albania and media freedom.
Berisha's statements in Dibër are expected to deepen political and media clashes, adding tension to an already polarized climate between the main opposition and government actors.
