Former Albanian President Bamir Topi has called on Prime Minister Edi Rama to assume political responsibility over the ongoing investigation involving Vlora Hyseni, the suspended head of Albania’s State Intelligence Service (SHISH).
Speaking to News24 on Monday, Topi said the case should be viewed not only through its legal aspects but also in the context of the political relationship between Hyseni and the government. His remarks came after Hyseni was placed under house arrest and suspended from her duties following a request by Albania’s Special Prosecutor’s Office (SPAK).
Topi argued that Hyseni’s previous political connections raised questions about the process through which she reached the leadership of SHISH, and said that political responsibility should ultimately be addressed by the head of government.
“This is a case that is being investigated. It is being investigated whether she served organized crime. But without doubt, it was a political product and, in a political relationship, she served her political boss,” Topi said, according to the interview cited by Albanian media.
He added that anyone within the administration who may have facilitated irregularities should face legal responsibility, while the prime minister should acknowledge political responsibility for the broader institutional process.
“The head of the executive should say: I bear the political responsibility. He did not say that,” Topi said.
Topi also questioned the safeguards used in appointing senior officials in Albania’s security institutions, arguing that candidates for sensitive positions should meet strict standards of transparency and provide confidence to the country’s international partners.
The former president said that classified information and the credibility of Albania’s security institutions were particularly important, warning that the developments surrounding Hyseni could affect the country’s standing with its international partners.
Hyseni was placed under house arrest and suspended from exercising public office by the Special Court on September 21, following a SPAK request. She is being investigated over alleged support for a person involved in criminal activity and alleged disclosure of state or service secrets. The proceedings remain ongoing, and the measures do not constitute a final determination of guilt.
Hyseni later returned to Albania and surrendered to authorities at the Morinë border crossing, according to Albanian public broadcaster RTSH.
The case has also prompted broader political debate over the independence of Albania’s security institutions and the role of the government in senior appointments. Topi has argued that the controversy raises questions about institutional checks and balances and Albania’s credibility with its international partners.
