Anuela Ristani, deputy mayor of Tirana, has announced her departure from office in a social media post, ending an 11-year period of involvement in the management of Albania’s capital.

Ristani’s announcement comes just days after Tirana Mayor Erion Veliaj, who is currently in detention, withdrew the delegation of powers he had granted to her in February 2025.

In her public statement, Ristani expressed gratitude for her years of work in the capital’s administration and reflected on the transformation of Tirana over the past decade.

She described her departure as one made “with pride, humility and full love for the city,” while highlighting the changes the capital has undergone since she began working for the municipality.

Ristani recalled Tirana’s Skanderbeg Square at the beginning of her career, contrasting its former appearance with its current role as a major meeting point for visitors from around the world.

“Time is the fairest, most impartial and most elusive judge,” Ristani wrote, calling for the city to be viewed and loved for what it is rather than for what it might offer.

She also thanked those closest to her for their support and said she would continue to feel a strong connection to Tirana.

“I leave today with the support and love of those who matter most to me. Thank you all,” Ristani said in her message.