The new Ombudsman, Mr. Endrit Shabani, officially took office today, one day after his oath before the Albanian Parliament, starting the exercise of the constitutional mandate entrusted to him.

The official presentation of the new Ombudsman before the commissioners, administration and staff of the institution was carried out by the Secretary General of the Albanian Parliament, Mr. Genci Gjonçaj, in accordance with constitutional procedures and in the spirit of institutional continuity.

The election of the new leader comes at an important moment for the institution and for the country, while Albania is in a crucial phase of the European integration process – a process where respect and guarantee of human rights and freedoms constitute a central value and an inalienable standard.

The Ombudsman Institution appreciates the contribution of Ms. Erinda Ballanca, who has led for 8 years and has continued to exercise the function even beyond the constitutional term, has guaranteed institutional stability, continuity of activity in the protection of citizens' rights in a period with numerous challenges.

Wishing the new Ombudsman, Mr. Shabani, success in his new duty, the institution expresses its will for a correct transition, full cooperation and uninterrupted continuation of the constitutional mission.