Virtual Politician to Oversee Public Procurement and Combat Corruption
Albania has made history by appointing its AI-powered virtual assistant, Diella, as a government “minister,” marking one of the first times an artificial intelligence bot has been given such a high-level political role.
Prime Minister Edi Rama announced the promotion during the National Assembly of the Socialist Party, stating that Diella’s primary mission will be ensuring Albania becomes “100% free of corruption.”
From Digital Assistant to Cabinet Member
Previously, Diella operated as a virtual assistant on the e-Albania platform, helping citizens and businesses access services ranging from driver’s licenses to pension applications and court filings. The AI issues documents with electronic stamps, reducing bureaucratic delays and limiting opportunities for corruption.
Since launch, Diella has issued over 36,600 digital documents and supported nearly 1,000 public services. Rama explained that transforming Diella into a minister was part of Albania’s broader digital governance strategy.
Albania is among the first nations to assign an AI system a government position. In 2023, Ukraine introduced “Victoria Shi,” an AI-generated spokesperson for its Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
“Diella is the first cabinet member who isn’t physically present, but virtually created by AI,” Rama said.
Oversight of Public Procurement
Diella will now oversee government procurement of goods and services—a sector historically plagued by scandals in Albania. The Balkan nation has long struggled with organized crime and corruption scandals, including high-profile cases against current and former officials.
However, Rama did not clarify who would be accountable if Diella makes mistakes, or what safeguards are in place to prevent AI manipulation.
Governments Turning to AI
The move highlights a growing trend of AI adoption in governance, even as concerns about oversight, transparency, and accountability remain unresolved.
For decades, corruption has hindered Albania’s European Union membership ambitions. Several former leaders, including ex-president Illir Meta and former minister Lefter Koka, have faced criminal charges.
Despite this, Rama remains optimistic about reforms and has stated his goal for Albania to join the EU by 2030.
By elevating Diella, Albania hopes to project an image of technological modernization while addressing one of its deepest systemic challenges: cleaning up public procurement.
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