Tensions flared during a hearing at the Administrative Court on Friday as Tirana Mayor Erion Veliaj pursued a lawsuit challenging the appointment of prosecutor Ols Dado.

During the proceedings, Veliaj directly criticized Dado, alleging that the prosecutor had not graduated from the School of Magistrates and questioning the legality of his appointment.

“I would be concerned if I were in your position,” Veliaj told the court, referring to previous statements made by members of the judicial governance system. He argued that no one should be above the law, while also insisting that no individual should receive legal protection without proper justification.

Veliaj further claimed that Dado had become a prosecutor despite not completing the required magistrate training, an allegation that has been the focus of his legal challenge. The mayor also referenced comments allegedly made regarding the circumstances of Dado’s appointment.

The hearing comes as Veliaj continues his legal efforts to contest the prosecutor’s role in the case against him. The court has not yet issued a ruling on the matter.