Albania’s Constitutional Court Rejects Government Appeal, Upholds Balluku’s Suspension

February 07, 2026 February 07, 2026

It is the decision that everyone in Tirana was waiting for, but few in the government actually expected. In a move that asserts its independence like never before, the Constitutional Court has delivered a knockout blow to the administration's hopes.

The appeal to reinstate Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure, Belinda Balluku, has been firmly rejected. The suspension stands. The "Iron Lady" of the cabinet is officially out of office.

1. The Verdict: "Constitutional and Necessary"

The Decision: By a majority vote, the judges ruled that the initial suspension requested by SPAK (Special Structure Against Corruption) and approved by the Special Court was entirely constitutional.

The government's legal team had argued that the suspension was "disproportionate" and harmed the functionality of the state, given Balluku's high rank. The Constitutional Court disagreed, stating essentially that "No office is higher than the law." This is a massive precedent for Albanian justice.

2. Why This Matters (The "Untouchables" Myth)

For decades, high-ranking officials in Albania felt immune. If you were a Minister, you were safe. This decision shatters that myth.

By upholding the suspension of the Number 2 person in the government, the Court has signaled that the justice reform (Reforma në Drejtësi) is no longer a project on paper—it is biting real hands. It sends a chill down the spine of every other official currently under investigation.

3. The Political Fallout for Edi Rama

"This creates a vacuum that is impossible to fill overnight."

Balluku wasn't just a minister; she controlled the most critical portfolios: Energy and Infrastructure. With her officially sidelined pending trial, Prime Minister Edi Rama faces his biggest cabinet crisis in years.

He is now forced to appoint a successor immediately, likely triggering a broader government reshuffle. The opposition is already calling for a technical government, sensing blood in the water.

4. What Happens Next?

Scenario A The Trial Begins: With the constitutional hurdles cleared, SPAK can now proceed with the core of the investigation regarding the alleged tender violations.

Scenario B Political Reshuffle: Expect a new name at the Ministry of Infrastructure within 48 hours. The Socialist Party will try to distance itself from the individual while protecting the party brand.

Conclusion

Today is a bad day for the government, but arguably a good day for the rule of law in Albania. The message is clear: The judiciary is no longer the executive's puppet.

Stay tuned to AlbMagazine as we track who will replace the most powerful woman in Albanian politics.