Tirana Mayor Erion Veliaj has formally called on foreign embassies and international organizations to monitor an upcoming court hearing that could have significant legal and institutional implications.

In a letter delivered by international law firms Kasowitz Benson Torres and Mishcon de Reya, Veliaj urged diplomatic representatives in Albania to observe the May 8 session at the Administrative Court of Tirana and requested that proceedings be broadcast live, in line with transparency practices of the Constitutional Court of Albania.

The hearing is set to examine whether prosecutor Ols Dado, who is leading the criminal case against Veliaj, was appointed in accordance with Albanian law. In his letter, Veliaj challenges the legality of Dado’s appointment, arguing that he did not meet mandatory qualification criteria, including graduating from the School of Magistrates or obtaining a lawful exemption.

Veliaj warns that the case could be dismissed on procedural grounds related to legal standing without addressing its merits, potentially in a closed setting shielded from public and international scrutiny. He cautions that such an outcome could raise serious concerns about due process and the rule of law in Albania.

“My legal challenge is not only about me or Mr. Dado. It is an effort to ensure that our republic follows the law governing the appointment of prosecutors, and to correct any errors in the vetting process that result in the appointment of unqualified candidates,” Veliaj wrote.

The letter further outlines what it describes as consequences of an unlawfully appointed prosecutor, including extended pre-trial detention, limited access to legal counsel and evidence, and broad investigative measures affecting Veliaj’s family and personal life.

Dan Fetterman, a partner at Kasowitz Benson Torres, emphasized the broader implications: “This is a fundamental rule-of-law issue. If a prosecutor lacks the legal qualifications to hold office, any actions taken under that authority are inherently questionable. Transparency in this proceeding is essential not only for Mayor Veliaj’s rights, but also for public trust in Albania’s judicial institutions.”