Albania turned corruption control into a software update

Albania has just introduced its first AI-powered “minister”, a digital figure called Diella.

Prime Minister Edi Rama presented her as part of his new cabinet, though it’s not an official role since ministers must be adult citizens under the constitution.

Diella, which means “sun” in Albanian, has been given the task of overseeing public procurement.

Rama says she’s there to make tenders corruption-free, faster, and more transparent.

He calls it the first full AI system for public procurement and says it should make the process more efficient and accountable.

This isn’t Diella’s first appearance.

She’s already been used as a virtual assistant on the e-Albania platform, helping more than a million people apply for documents online.

Now, Rama wants her to symbolise how Albania can “leapfrog” other countries by adopting new technology instead of sticking with old systems.

The response has been mixed. The opposition has called it “ridiculous” and “unconstitutional,” but some say it could improve transparency if it develops into a working system.

Financial executive Aneida Bajraktari Bicja said Rama often blends reform with theatrics but agreed that AI could be useful if it builds real trust.

Experts also see potential. Dr Andi Hoxhaj from King’s College London says AI could help check whether bids meet the right criteria.

With the EU pushing Albania to tackle corruption as part of accession talks, the government has a clear incentive to try.

Rama admits there’s an element of showmanship, but says Diella is also meant to push his ministers to think and work differently.

For now, she’s both a political gesture and a test of how AI might fit into government.

Imagine your boss is an AI and still more chill than your manager.