Merlika-Kruja Government

Date formed3 December 1941 (1941-12-03)

Date dissolved4 January 1943 (1943-01-04)

KingVictor Emmanuel III
(as King of Albania)

Prime MinisterMustafa Merlika-Kruja

Merlika-Kruja Government
30th Government of Albania
December 1941 – January 1943
Date formed	3 December 1941 (1941-12-03)
Date dissolved	4 January 1943 (1943-01-04)
People and organisations
King	Victor Emmanuel III (as King of Albania)
Prime Minister	Mustafa Merlika-Kruja
No. of ministers	9
History
Predecessor	Vërlaci II Government
Successor	Libohova I Government

The Merlika-Kruja Government (Albanian: Qeveria e Mustafa Krujës) was the 30th ruling government of Albania, in office from 3 December 1941 to 4 January 1943, during the period of the Italian occupation of Albania in World War II. It was headed by Mustafa Merlika-Kruja, who concurrently served as Prime Minister and acting Secretary of State for Internal Affairs.^[1]

This government represented one of the most ideologically aligned collaborationist administrations with the Italian Fascist regime. Its policies emphasized strong anti-communism, administrative centralization, and close cooperation with Italian authorities. During its tenure, Albania included territories annexed during the war including part of Kosovo, often referred to as the “Liberated Lands” (Albanian: Tokat e Lirueme), which were administered through a dedicated ministry.^[2]

The Merlika-Kruja Government faced growing resistance from partisan forces and increasing instability as the war situation deteriorated for the Axis powers. Mounting internal opposition and Italian dissatisfaction led to Mustafa Kruja's resignation in early 1943, paving the way for a new cabinet under Libohova I Government.^[3]