Today's meeting of the Council of Mandates and Immunities, where the mandate of Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku was discussed, has also ended without any results. In the session that was held behind closed doors, the political representatives in the committee did not change their positions, while SPAK brought new evidence that aggravates the situation of the Deputy Prime Minister.
Special Prosecutors have stated that powerful individuals suspected of involvement in the crime, who are being investigated, have threatened witnesses in the Balluku case. Prosecutors have also not revealed names, but have emphasized that a public official attempted to corrupt and threaten witnesses.
"In addition to powerful individuals suspected of being involved in the crime, which is being investigated, intimidation has also occurred from public officials, the minister's cabinet, who have threatened or attempted to corrupt witnesses. We are not providing any more information because it is under investigation and is protected by investigative secrecy," the prosecutors said.
According to the prosecution, in the initial phase, Balluku risked up to 10 years in prison, while with the new charges currently filed, she risks up to 35 years in prison.
On the other hand, the majority and the opposition continue to maintain the same position on the issue in question, causing the meeting to be accompanied by debates. The Socialists consider SPAK's measures sufficient up to this point in the investigation.
“The measures currently in force against Ms. Balluku are sufficient for the needs of the investigation,” Manja said.
Meanwhile, opposition MPs accused the majority of dragging out the process. They also proposed that the Assembly vote on March 5 to lift the immunity and pave the way for the arrest of the deputy prime minister.
On the other hand, Balluk's lawyers, Pamela Qirko and Ardian Kalija, requested that SPAK's request be dismissed. According to the defense, the prosecution must prove the risk of evidence destruction or departure from the country.
The report of the Mandates Council is expected to be passed into a plenary session for a vote. Balluku has been charged with violating equality in tenders for the Llogara Tunnel and is also under investigation for the 7 lots of the Big Ring Road.
