Prosecutor Adnan Xholi of the Special Prosecution against Corruption (SPAK) has become the first candidate to officially submit his application for the position of Albania's Prosecutor General, marking the start of the selection process ahead of the expiration of the current prosecutor's mandate later this year.

The deadline for submitting applications is August 1 at midnight, and additional candidates are expected to enter the race before the application period closes.

Xholi has previously competed twice for the position of SPAK Chief Prosecutor and has served as the head of the Organized Crime Section within the Special Prosecution Office. His latest application makes him the first official contender in the race to lead Albania's prosecution service.

Following the application deadline, the High Prosecutorial Council (KLP) will review candidates' eligibility through August 14 to determine whether they meet the legal requirements for the office.

Under Albanian law, the KLP will nominate three qualified candidates to Parliament, which will then elect the country's next Prosecutor General for a seven-year term.

The mandate of the current Prosecutor General, Olsian Çela, is scheduled to expire in December, paving the way for the appointment of his successor.