Democratic Party (DP) MP, Eduard Halimi denounced Prime Minister, Edi Rama attempts to turn the Ombudsman institution into a puppet due to his role in judicial system. He raised this concern during the Legal Issues, Public Administration and Human Rights Committee on Wednesday. According to Halimi the executive’s process for Ombudsman election is totally contrary to the tradition, the political pact and the Constitution

“Ombudsman can never be a Premier’s choice. He belongs to the people, to the citizens, thus must serve as guardian of civil rights and serve to the citizens interests. The Ombudsman must be a voice against the Premier not a puppet in his hands,” said the Democrat MP, adding that while 5 years ago the Ombudsman was selected by Socialist Party a totally different practice is currently being verified.

According to Halimi this fact is related to PM Rama arrogant attitude and his fervent desire to control everything. 

“The constitutional competencies given to the Ombudsman by the Judicial Reform, turning him into a figure detached from the executive, urge PM Rama to transform this institution into his puppet aiming to influence the judicial system,” argued Halimi.