An unusual dispute has emerged within Albania’s High Prosecutorial Council (KLP) as the institution continues the process of selecting candidates for the country’s next Prosecutor General.

The dispute began during the council’s previous meeting when Prosecutor General candidate Ylli Pjeternikaj requested the recusal of KLP member Vat Staka from the selection procedure.

A series of further recusal requests followed. Staka sought the recusal of Zeqir Hoda, Hoda requested the recusal of Sokol Stojani, while Stojani subsequently sought the recusal of KLP Chairwoman Mirela Bogdani.

Tensions escalated during Thursday’s meeting, when Stojani and Bogdani engaged in a heated exchange, including a dispute over their respective professional and academic qualifications.

Stojani accused Bogdani of exceeding her powers and acting in an allegedly biased and non-objective manner.

“I stand by the request I submitted. You have exceeded your powers, Madam Chair. You have acted in a non-objective and biased manner,” Stojani said, according to excerpts of the exchange reported by Top Channel.

Bogdani rejected the characterization of her conduct and questioned why the council should begin by considering the latest recusal request rather than the first one submitted.

The exchange then became personal, with Stojani questioning Bogdani’s qualifications.

“I know that you have problems with your education, but…” Stojani said.

Bogdani responded by challenging him to compare their academic credentials.

“If I have problems with my education, then let’s open the university diplomas and look at the master’s degrees, education and qualifications, and see who has problems with their education,” Bogdani said. “Look at your own qualifications first, and then let’s talk.”

Stojani then urged the chairwoman to follow the applicable legal framework and consider the matter according to established procedures.

The dispute comes as the KLP moves forward with the process of selecting candidates for Albania’s Prosecutor General, a position that carries significant importance within the country’s justice system.