Prosecutor General praised by US ambassador

TIRANA, March 8 – On Monday prosecutors convened in a meeting of Albanian and Montenegrin prosecutors exchanging their experience and establishing closer ties.
US Ambassador to Albania John L Withers was also present at the meeting where he praised the work of Prosecutor General Ina Rama underlining her integrity in the face of political pressure from both the opposition and the government.
“Prosecutor General Ina Rama has exhibited dedication and commitment in protecting the integrity and the independence of her office,” said Withers.
“She has shown professionalism and devotion in the face of a great many obstacles,” Withers added.
Prosecutor General Ina Rama has come under fire constantly since her appointment in November 2007, by both the government of Prime Minister Sali Berisha and the opposition, after launching high profile probes against the highest echelons of power.
According to Withers, the prosecutor general has faced attacks from both political groups, often published in the media, which, “ƣriticized her just because she was doing her job.”
Although noting that a prosecutor’s job is not easy anywhere, Withers underlined that Albania’s “archaic” legal system of immunity for politicians has made Rama’s job particularly difficult.
It seems that all international institutions have directed their attention recently to the independence of the judicial system in the country. That is very important taking into consideration the development of the country’s recent issues not only in politics but also reshuffle some main law institutions and efforts the country is making towards the European Union.
Rama and her Montenegrin counterparts also discussed new ways in the fight against economic crime and corruption.