In a groundbreaking yet controversial move, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama has introduced an AI-generated “minister” to his cabinet, tasked with overseeing anti-corruption efforts. The AI system, named Diella—which means “sun” in Albanian—was unveiled on Thursday as a “member of the cabinet who is not present physically.”
Rama described Diella as a tool that will ensure 100% transparency in public tenders, an area long plagued by corruption in the Balkan nation of 2.8 million people. Awarding contracts has often been a major source of graft, and tackling this problem is crucial for Albania’s European Union accession talks, which the government aims to conclude by 2027.
How Diella Will Work
Diella was first launched earlier this year as a virtual assistant on the e-Albania public service platform, where it has already been used to issue 36,600 digital documents and provide nearly 1,000 services to citizens.
The government now has the burning desire to expand its role, giving it oversight of tender processes to prevent favoritism, inflated pricing, or political interference.
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However, Rama has not specified what kind of human oversight will be built into the system, raising questions about accountability and safeguards against manipulation.
Reactions and Criticism
The announcement sparked heated debate. Supporters hailed it as a bold, futuristic step toward clean governance, while critics dismissed it as a publicity stunt. Opposition lawmaker Gazmend Bardhi of the Democrats labeled the move “unconstitutional”, arguing that an AI cannot be given cabinet status.
On social media, skepticism was widespread. One user quipped: “Even Diella will be corrupted in Albania.” Another wrote: “Stealing will continue, and Diella will be blamed for all the stealing.”
Legal experts also warned that parliament may now have the requirement to clarify Diella’s official status, since no law currently recognizes AI as a government officeholder.
Potential Impacts of AI Minister
If this is implemented effectively, Diella could prove to be a game-changer in the sector of digital governance, setting a precedent for AI-driven transparency in Europe.
It is going to help in restoring public trust and strengthening Albania’s case for EU membership. On the other hand, without clear oversight and legal grounding, the initiative risks being dismissed as symbolic—highlighting the tension between technological innovation and political reality.