Beleri’s Probation: A Turning Point in Albanian-Greek Relation: Fredi Beleri Release
Fredi Beleri Release, the ethnic Greek mayor of an Albanian seaside town, has been released on probation after a court in Fier, Albania, granted his request. With just six weeks left on his two-year sentence, Beleri’s release has ignited celebrations in his hometown of Himarë and brought renewed attention to the strained relations between Albania and Greece.
The Arrest and Its Political Ripple Effect
Beleri was arrested just two days before last year’s municipal elections, accused of attempting to buy votes with 40,000 Albanian leks (€360). His conviction not only led to his imprisonment but also significant diplomatic tensions, with Greece threatening to block Albania’s bid to join the European Union. Beleri and the Greek government have argued that the charges were politically motivated, while Albanian officials maintain that the judiciary acted independently.
From Prisoner to European Parliament Member
Despite his imprisonment, Beleri’s political journey took a dramatic turn when he was elected to the European Parliament in June as part of Greece’s ruling New Democracy party. Given a temporary leave from prison to attend the parliament’s opening session in Strasbourg, his election underscored the complex dynamics. Greek government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis acknowledged Beleri’s release as a positive step but emphasised that the Greek government remains vigilant in supporting the Greek minority in Albania. Meanwhile, the aftermath of his conviction saw a fresh election in Himarë, where the governing Socialist Party secured the mayoral seat, further fueling debates over land rights and political control in the region. Fredi Beleri Release.
