In 1771, as a reward for his successful campaigns against Greek insurgents in the Orlov revolt during the Russo-Turkish war of 1768-1774, Mehmed Pasha Bushati would be given control over the Sanjaks of Durrës, Dukagjin, Elbasan and Ohrid.

[1] Upon ascending to the position of vizier, Mehmed Pasha Bushati turned a blind eye to the duties assigned by the Sublime Porte.

Mehmed Pasha's independent stance and actions posed a challenge to the authority of the Sublime Porte in the region.

[2] Recognizing the increased influence of the Bushatlis, the Sublime Porte sought to restore balance of power in the region, leading to a War between the two pashas.

[3] The military defeat of Ahmet Kurt Pasha resulted in his withdrawal and the reannexation of the Sanjak of Durrës into the Pashalık of Scutari.