TIRANA, February 12 – Minister of Justice Besfort Lamallari presented the program for the international competition for the Justice Center. He said judicial independence now stands as a tangible reality, unlike a decade ago. He described the new complex of justice buildings as a concrete step to strengthen institutions.

The minister referred to past problems in the system. He mentioned inequality before the law, a culture of impunity, and interference from political, economic, and criminal actors. He argued that facts, not rhetoric, prove that justice has entered a new phase of development.

Lamallari stated that safeguarding judicial independence requires continuous effort. He stressed that this principle forms the foundation of a functional democratic state.

Meanwhile, he said a judicial system remains independent only when it acts fairly. He added that policymakers must not influence court decisions or specific cases. Instead, they must guarantee the legal framework, financial resources, and necessary conditions for independent functioning.

In addition, the minister said the fight against impunity, financial treatment of magistrates, and progress in the justice sector must not serve to hide other shortcomings. He noted that citizens expect normal standards found in European democracies. He said people seek dignity, impartial hearings, and timely decisions affecting their lives or property.

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