Albanian President Bajram Begaj on Monday formally decreed the new government proposed by Prime Minister Edi Rama, days after the Socialist leader secured a fourth consecutive mandate.
The decree, published by the president’s office, names 16 ministers and several state ministers to the new cabinet. Notably absent is “Diella,” a virtual minister of public procurement presented earlier this year as an artificial intelligence assistant, which had triggered public debate about technology’s role in governance.
Under Albania’s constitution, the decrees now go to parliament, which must approve the government’s program and composition. Rama and his ministers will then take the oath of office in a ceremony at the presidential palace.
The line-up retains several figures from Rama’s previous cabinets, including Belinda Balluku, who remains deputy prime minister and minister of infrastructure and energy, and Elisa Spiropali, who moves to head the foreign ministry. Petrit Malaj will serve as finance minister, while Blendi Gonxhja has been appointed minister of tourism, culture and sports.
Other key posts include Sofjan Jaupaj as environment minister, Mirela Kumbaro Furxhi as education minister, Evis Sala as health and social welfare minister, Delina Ibrahimaj as minister of economy and innovation, Besfort Lamallari as justice minister, and Pirro Vengu as defence minister.
Analysts say Rama’s decision to drop the virtual “minister” reflects criticism from opposition parties and civil society groups, who had dismissed the experiment as a publicity stunt rather than a governance innovation. The opposition has also pledged to challenge Rama’s agenda, accusing him of concentrating too much power after more than a decade in office.
Rama, in power since 2013, has overseen Albania’s progress toward European Union accession talks but has faced criticism over corruption, rule of law, and media freedom. His new cabinet is expected to focus on EU integration, economic modernization and reforms demanded by Brussels.
The swearing-in of the new government is expected in the coming days after parliamentary approval.