| Country | AL |
| Name and Surname | Group of Journalists |
| Gender | Group |
| Date | 19/09/2014 |
| City / Location | Tirana |
| Type of incident | Other threats to journalists |
| By whom | By public persons |
| Type of media | Radio and television online |
| Source | https://www.balkanweb.com/a-kercenoi-berisha-gazetaret-malltezi-ja-emrat-qe-po-perdoren-nga-spak-per-hallet-e-tyre/#gsc.tab=0 |
| Was journalist`s association informed | Yes |
Following recent reactions to the threats against journalists by Sali Berisha (September 18, 2024), he issued a clarifying statement on his social media profile, aiming to address misunderstandings about his comments. Berisha emphasized that his statements were not intended to intimidate genuine journalists but to defend journalistic integrity and professionalism. He acknowledged his threat, clarifying that it targeted those allegedly misused by SPAK, whom he described as individuals involved in criminal activities rather than true journalists: “I do not deny that in my statement yesterday, there was a threat, and this threat applies equally to anyone who has committed a crime… I note that some of them (referring to journalists) are being extremely misused by SPAK. They are being held hostage, and I will prove this. With this, I tell you that I will treat them the same as members of the criminal organization, SPAK of the party.” Despite reaffirming respect for dedicated journalists, Berisha continues to use aggressive language against critical voices.
On September 19, 2024, during a talk show, his daughter Argita Malltezi reinforced this narrative, specifically naming two journalists critical of Berisha, claiming they were “being used by SPAK because of their legal battles.”
Sources:
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/yrzyLYMzi8FUDT1R/?mibextid=WC7FNe
