In Tirana, The Appeal of the Court against Corruption and Organized Crime (GJKKO) has rejected Sali Berisha’s appeal for a change in security measures.
Thus, the decision of the First Instance Court remains in force, meaning that the former prime minister will continue to remain under house arrest.
Sali Berisha has been under house arrest since December 30, 2023. This measure was taken against him as he did not comply with the obligation to appear, refusing to go to the Special Prosecutor’s Office (SPAK).
However, on Tuesday, Berisha made his first appearance in SPAK, where he was questioned by prosecutors regarding the “Partizani” case.
What is Berisha accused of?
Berisha was accused in October 2023 of abusing his position to assist his son-in-law Jamarbër Malltezi in buying land in Tirana owned by citizens and the Ministry of Defense, as well as constructing 17 residential buildings on that land.
Berisha and Malltezi have dismissed the allegations, claiming that the case against them is politically motivated by the ruling party of Prime Minister Edi Rama, the Socialist Party.
While Berisha has characterized this case as a “pure political attack by Prime Minister Edi Rama”, SPAK has also accused high-ranking officials of the Socialist government.
These include former Deputy Prime Minister Arben Ahmetaj, former and current members of parliament, former ministers and deputy ministers, and former mayors, from whom Prime Minister Edi Rama has distanced himself. He stated that everyone must face justice for the allegations against them, and the Socialist Party doesn’t serve as an advocate’s office for anyone.
Since October, opposition Democratic Party deputies have consistently obstructed parliamentary sessions, as they call it, to prevent the highly authoritarian rule of the Socialists.
Berisha served as Prime Minister of Albania from 2005 to 2013 and as President from 1992 to 1997.
In May 2021, the United States and in July 2022, the United Kingdom banned Berisha and his close family members from traveling to these countries due to suspicions of his involvement in corruption.
