The trial of the imprisoned mayor of Heimarra, Fredis Beleris, continues todaywhich was visited yesterday Tuesday by the Minister of State Stavros Papastavrou.

“Times are hard, that’s why I wanted to be here. Unfortunately, in Himarra, the principle of popular sovereignty has not yet been implemented. It is the only municipality in all of Europe where the disqualified mayor continues to exercise power, while the elected mayor is deprived of his democratic right to take the oath. We stand by Freddy Beleris and his right to a fair trial that continues”, said Mr. Papastavrou in his statements, declaring that Albania must respect the principles of the rule of law.

“We want the presumption of his innocence to be fully respected by Albanian justice. A fair solution must finally be found within the framework of the European acquis, the rule of law and the principle of good neighborliness, so that democratic normalcy can be restored in Heimarra,” said Mr. Papastavrou in his statement.