Albania has introduced its first-ever artificial intelligence cabinet member, tasked with managing all public procurement contracts. Prime Minister Edi Rama, who begins his fourth term in office, unveiled “Diella” — an AI-generated bot, describing her as “impervious to bribes, threats, or favours.”
Named after the Albanian word for “sun,” Diella will oversee and award tenders to private companies carrying out government projects. Rama said her role marks a turning point in Albania’s efforts to eliminate corruption from public procurement, a sector long plagued by scandals.
Public tenders have historically been a breeding ground for graft in Albania, a Balkan state often criticised for corruption and money laundering. Analysts say the bold move from government is also intended to bolster its credibility as it pursues accession to the European Union, a goal Rama has set for 2030.
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Diella is not entirely new. She was first launched this year as a virtual assistant on the e-Albania platform, where she helped citizens and businesses obtain documents through voice commands. Dressed in traditional Albanian attire, the AI bot also issues documents with electronic stamps, speeding up bureaucratic processes.
While supporters see her appointment as a technological leap, scepticism persists. Critics question whether human oversight will still be required and warn of potential manipulation of the AI system. Online, some Albanians voiced cynicism, with one social media user quipping: “Even Diella will be corrupted in Albania.”
Despite doubts, Rama insists the initiative reflects his government’s determination to ensure “100% corruption-free tenders.” Parliament, elected in May, is set to convene on Friday, though the timeline for a formal vote of confidence in the new cabinet remains unclear.