SPAK Workload: SPAK chief Klodian Braho says the anti-corruption body has 616 active criminal cases from January to July, with nearly half opened through prosecutors’ own proactive inquiries, and he links the France arrest of fugitive businessman Ermal Beqiri to coordinated steps and asset seizures. Civic Space Under Pressure: Civil society and media groups warn of a growing pattern of smear campaigns and public attacks against journalists and activists, saying civic space and freedom of expression are being squeezed ahead of EU integration. Protest Fallout: An artist, Eda Zari, denounces “naming and shaming” tactics tied to the Flamingos protest movement, arguing it has turned hostile and intimidatory rather than peaceful. Local Government Shake-up: Socialists propose Administrative-Territorial Reform 2.0, merging municipalities from 61 to 46 (28 merged into 13), with a new “City” tier and 60 days for local councils to respond. Tirana Mayor Case: Albania’s Supreme Court sets a Sept. 15 hearing on the detention appeal of Tirana mayor Erion Veliaj. World Cup Politics: UEFA confirms it will boycott FIFA competitions if FIFA’s plan to sell stakes in tournaments to private investors goes ahead, with Albania listed among potential absentees. Health Access: Free basic health checks for everyone over 35 start in September, with the upper age limit removed and dialysis services to be taken over later. Tourism & Housing: Short-term rentals are rising fast, with nightly prices up over 15%, reducing long-term housing supply for locals. Diplomacy: Albania and Serbia agree in principle to open consulates in Shkodër and Bujanoc/Preševo area, pending final terms.