The battle against corruption is a relentless endeavor that requires steadfast dedication and unwavering commitment. In Albania, recent events surrounding the dismissal of Agron Zhukri from his position as a judge at the Tirana Court shed light on the ongoing efforts to uphold integrity within the judicial system, as local media reports.
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| Agron Zhukri after the session at the Independent Qualification Commission |
On Friday, the Independent Qualification Commission discharged Judge Agron Zhukri following a reassessment focused solely on the criterion of wealth. Notably absent during the announcement session, Zhukri was represented by his son, who also serves as his legal counsel in this matter.
The commission, comprised of Olsi Komici as chairman, with Firdes Shuli and Xhensila Pina as members, initially announced the rejection of Zhukri's request to reopen the investigation on the other two criteria of reassessment. This request was made during the hearing session, where it was revealed that Zhukri had been investigated solely for his wealth and was found to have a significantly negative balance. Zhukri contested this finding and requested the investigation to be reopened regarding his professionalism and character. However, the commission announced during the session that this request was denied, as the judge had failed to overturn the burden of proof regarding the negative balances to justify his wealth. Subsequently, the commission announced the decision to dismiss Zhukri.
Agron Zhukri began his career in the judiciary in 1994 and has served as a judge at the Tirana Court for over two decades. His name surfaced in the spring of 2022 due to the internal conflict within the Democratic Party over the party's logo and emblem. Zhukri sided with the Rethinking Group led by Sali Berisha, a decision later overturned by the Court of Appeals, returning the case for reconsideration at the first instance.
The dismissal of Agron Zhukri underscores Albania's commitment to combatting corruption and upholding the rule of law. It signifies a step forward in ensuring transparency and accountability within the country's judicial system. As Albania continues its journey towards strengthening governance and combating corruption, cases like Zhukri's serve as reminders of the ongoing efforts and the necessity of upholding integrity at all levels of society.