Former Albanian Prime Minister Sali Berisha has been formally charged with corruption in connection with a property deal, which he has described as politically motivated. The charges stem from allegations that Berisha abused his post to help his son-in-law privatize public land in Tirana to build apartment buildings. Berisha, who leads the opposition Democratic Party, has been under house arrest since December for violating previous requirements to check in with authorities. He has also been barred from traveling abroad.
Jamarber Malltezi, Berisha’s son-in-law who is involved in politics and business, was also informed on Wednesday that he is facing formal corruption charges. Berisha’s legal immunity was stripped by Parliament in December, leading to his arrest. He has criticized the investigation and his arrest as political repression orchestrated by Prime Minister Edi Rama, the leader of the governing Socialist Party. Berisha has rejected all claims of corruption, calling them lies, and has described the situation as a continuation of political revenge.
Supporters of Berisha gathered outside the prosecutors’ office, shouting slogans in his support and criticizing the government. Berisha served as Albania’s prime minister from 2005-2013 and as president from 1992-1997. He was re-elected as a lawmaker for the Democratic Party in the 2021 parliamentary elections. With Albania’s parliamentary elections coming up next year, if Berisha is convicted or still awaiting trial, he may not be allowed to run for office. Both the United States and the United Kingdom have barred Berisha and close family members from entering their countries due to alleged involvement in corruption.
The investigation into Berisha and the charges against him come amid a backdrop of political turmoil in Albania, with the opposition Democratic Party accusing the government of corruption and abuse of power. Prime Minister Edi Rama has denied these allegations and has maintained his stance on combating corruption. The situation has sparked tensions between supporters of both parties, with Berisha’s arrest being seen as a significant development. The outcome of Berisha’s case could have implications for the upcoming parliamentary elections and the political landscape in Albania.
Berisha’s case highlights the ongoing challenges of corruption and political accountability in Albania, a country that has faced issues of corruption in the past. The allegations against Berisha have raised concerns about the independence of the judiciary and the rule of law in the country. The political polarization between the government and the opposition further complicates efforts to address these issues. As the case unfolds, it will be crucial to ensure a fair and transparent legal process to uphold justice and accountability. The outcome of Berisha’s trial will be closely watched both domestically and internationally for its implications on governance and democracy in Albania.
