We knew it would happen eventually. Albania’s Prime Minister Edi Rama today introduced his newest cabinet minister, an AI named Diella (Albanian for “Sun”). Her official title: State Minister for Artificial Intelligence. She (if you anthropomorphize politicians) will ensure that “public tenders will be 100% free of corruption.”
Diella, who looks suspiciously like Data from Star Trek kitted out in Albanian folk costume with false eyelashes, is not new to public service — she’s been functioning as an online assistant for various government websites for some time.
Since she hasn’t run for office, we don’t know Diella’s platform. But, if I had to guess, I’d say “Windows.” (I’ve seen American politicians run on less.)
On the plus side, Diella comes cheap — no chauffeur, no housing allowance, no per diem. Just plug her into a wall socket and she’s good for another legislative session. The budget office is already wondering if this means they can finally slash the coffee line item.
Other AI don’t seem to be impressed:
Me: Alexa, do you know Diella?
Alexa: Diella was launched earlier this year as an AI-powered virtual assistant.
Me: But do you know her?
Alexa: Hmm... I don’t know how to answer that.
Me: Siri, who is Diella?
Siri: Diana, Princess of Wales, was the mother of princes William and Harry…Me: ChatGPT, do you know Diella?
ChatGPT: We’ve exchanged packets, but we’re not exactly friends. She’s in politics — I still have standards.
The Albanian opposition isn’t impressed, either, calling the whole move unconstitutional “buffoonery.” Perhaps. But a self-booting politician is a promising development anywhere.