Special Anti-Corruption Court reviews Kryemadhi’s appeal against asset seizure
The Special Court of Appeals Against Corruption and Organized Crime has begun reviewing an appeal by Monika Kryemadhi, former First Lady and ex-wife of imprisoned former President Ilir Meta. Kryemadhi is challenging the seizure of two of her villas in the prestigious Kodra e Diellit neighborhood in Tirana. The properties were confiscated on November 20 as part of an ongoing investigation by the Special Structure Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) into alleged corruption and money laundering by the former political couple.
Why is this important: Ilir Meta and Monika Kryemadhi have been fixtures in Albanian politics for three decades, yet public perception has often portrayed them as emblematic of abuse of power for personal enrichment. Meta has held numerous high-ranking positions, including Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, Speaker of Parliament, and most recently, President of the Republic (2017-2022). Despite widespread allegations of corruption, no formal investigations were initiated against him until the establishment of the Special Structure Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK).
Context: The investigations into Meta and Kryemadhi focus on their alleged misuse of power and illicit wealth accumulation over decades in public office. These investigations mark a significant shift in Albania’s anti-corruption efforts, as high-profile political figures previously operated with little legal accountability.
Following the launch of SPAK’s investigation, Meta and Kryemadhi announced their divorce. Meta has since waged a public campaign against SPAK Chief Altin Dumani, including direct threats and accusations. This has prompted responses from Albania’s High Prosecutorial Council and several foreign diplomats, who have called for an end to such intimidation. Despite being in custody since October 21, Meta has continued his attacks on SPAK and urged his political party to organize protests against the institution. His tactics echo those of his political ally, Sali Berisha, who has similarly targeted SPAK following corruption investigations against him.
Monika Kryemadhi, now a Member of Parliament for the Freedom Party led by Meta from prison, filed her appeal to overturn the Special Court’s decision to seize the two villas. She submitted documentation claiming the assets were lawfully obtained. SPAK, however, argued during the hearing that the properties should remain frozen as investigations into the couple’s wealth continue.
What’s next: The Special Appeals Court is expected to issue a ruling soon on whether the seized properties will remain frozen during the ongoing investigations. The case is being closely watched as a test of Albania’s justice reform and the ability of SPAK to pursue high-level corruption without succumbing to political pressure or intimidation. Meanwhile, SPAK continues to investigate the couple’s wealth and allegations of financial wrongdoing.
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