Prime Minister Edi Rama said his political responsibility lies in continuing justice reform and strengthening the fight against corruption.

At a joint press conference with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, journalists asked Rama whether he felt politically responsible for government appointments, including that of former SHISH chief Vlora Hyseni.

Rama said political responsibility should focus on the government’s broader objectives rather than the individual actions of appointed officials.

“For me, political responsibility means one thing: ensuring that justice reform continues and that the fight against corruption, organized crime and unlawful acts continues as a mission of the system,” Rama said.

Meanwhile, Rama said his government had launched the justice reform that produced the changes Albania sees today.

“We were here when what we see today seemed unimaginable. That changed only after we launched the transformative effort and carried out justice reform,” he said.

Rama also rejected the idea that political leaders should automatically take responsibility for every action of an appointed official. “In a democracy, we must set objectives, explain how we use public funds and remain accountable for how we govern,” he said.

Furthermore, Rama said independent institutions should handle individual wrongdoing. “Those who betray the common purpose must face the consequences through the independent justice system,” he said.

Finally, Rama referred to a case in France to illustrate how different political systems handle individual allegations. He said the French justice system eventually cleared the minister in that case, who remained in office.

“Each country follows its own approach. No one should receive protection when an independent investigation or court process must determine the consequences of an action,” Rama said.