In a historic first, Albania has introduced an AI-powered cabinet minister, Diella, marking a bold step toward leveraging technology to combat corruption. Unlike ministers for artificial intelligence, Diella is a fully AI-generated government official tasked with overseeing public procurement.
Prime Minister Edi Rama unveiled Diella during the launch of his new cabinet, four months after securing his fourth term in office. While symbolic—since the Albanian constitution requires ministers to be human citizens over 18—the move signals the government’s commitment to transparency and efficiency.
Diella, whose name means “sun” in Albanian, was initially an AI-powered virtual assistant on the e-Albania platform, helping over a million citizens navigate official document applications. In her new role, she will monitor public tenders, ensuring they are free from corruption and fully accountable.
“Not only will we wipe out every potential influence on public biddings, but we will also make the process faster, more efficient, and totally accountable,” Rama told the BBC, highlighting the AI’s role in modernizing governance.
The initiative has sparked mixed reactions. The opposition Democratic Party criticized the move as “ridiculous” and “unconstitutional,” while experts see potential benefits. Anti-corruption specialists note that AI systems like Diella could improve transparency by rigorously checking whether companies meet tender requirements.
Dr. Andi Hoxhaj of King’s College London said, “If programmed correctly, AI can help monitor bids and prevent graft, aligning with Albania’s EU accession goals, which require serious anti-corruption measures.”
In her first parliamentary address, Diella emphasized accountability, transparency, and non-discrimination, reminding lawmakers that her mission mirrors the duties of human ministers, if not more rigorously.
While some view the appointment as a publicity stunt, Rama insists that it pressures human officials to innovate and run government processes efficiently. As Albania positions itself as a regional leader in digital governance, Diella represents both a symbolic and practical step toward cleaner, more transparent public service.
