Rama's amendment to Article 242 of the Criminal Procedure Code (suspension of officials)
Status: Proposal; vote and final text not confirmed
Summary
On 16 Feb 2026 draft amendments to Article 242 of the Criminal Procedure Code were introduced, reportedly by Rama himself. They would stop courts from suspending senior officials, including ministers, from office while proceedings are pending. The change was prompted by the November 2025 GJKKO suspension of Balluku. A broader package proposes amendments to 105 articles of the criminal procedure code.
Council of Europe PACE raised concern in Written Question No. 811 (24 Mar 2026), warning of a de facto 'super-immunity' regime. The opposition says the change protects ministers under investigation. The final text and vote status were not confirmed in this session.
Key facts
- 16 Feb 2026: draft amendments to Art. 242 introduced (Reuters via search summary). Local file dates Rama's claim 10 Feb 2026; the discrepancy is unresolved.
- 24 Mar 2026: PACE written question No. 811 (Doc. 16368) to Committee of Ministers.
- Package reportedly amends 105 articles of the criminal procedure code (search summary).
The record
Four lists kept apart on purpose: what is established, what is only alleged, what is still open, and what those concerned said.
What is proven (1)
Established by documents or official records, as stated in the research. A recorded charge or indictment proves only that the accusation was made.
- A draft amendment to Article 242 was introduced in February 2026 and a PACE written question was filed on 24 Mar 2026.
What is alleged (1)
Accusations, not findings. Those accused are presumed innocent.
- AllegationThat the purpose is to protect allies and officials at risk of suspension.
Allegations and who made them (1)
Each line is an allegation as recorded, with the person or body that made it where the record names them.
- AllegationCritics say the amendment shields ministers under investigation (opposition and PACE question).
Open questions (2)
- Was the amendment passed? If so, when, and does it apply to pending cases such as Balluku's?
- What did the Committee of Ministers answer to PACE question 811?
Responses (1)
Responses of the people and organisations concerned, as recorded.
- Rama said the Socialist group would address the matter through legislation (local file, quoted 10 Feb 2026).
Timeline
Full timeline →Government
Rama introduces amendment to Article 242 CPC (suspension of officials)
Draft would bar courts from suspending senior officials. Introduced after the Balluku suspension. Local file dates the claim 10 Feb 2026.
International
PACE written question No. 811 on the Article 242 change
Warns the change could create de facto super-immunity and limit judicial oversight.
Connections
Amendment would bar suspensions
Evidence: Rama's draft changes Art. 242 CPC to stop courts suspending senior officials; introduced after Balluku's suspension.
Sources for this record
Every source the research cites for this record, grouped by its source label. 2 sources.
Source label: Officially reportedOfficially reported · 2 sources
- Publisher
- Council of Europe PACE
- Date
- 24 Mar 2026
- Publisher
- Global Banking and Finance (Reuters-based)
- Date
- not recorded