Sali Berisha and son-in-law to be formally charged on Wednesday
Former Albanian President and two-time Prime Minister Sali Berisha, who also heads the Democratic Party, is expected to be formally charged by the Special Structure againt Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) on Wednesday. On the same day, charges are also anticipated to be communicated to his son-in-law, Jamarbër Malltezi.
Why this news is significant
The case against Berisha and Malltezi is a significant test for Albania’s reformed judicial system’s independence and its capacity to handle high-profile cases. Furthermore, Berisha’s influence within Albanian politics and his role as a long-standing leader of the Democratic Party mean that the legal process against him could reshape political alignments and affect the party’s future.
What is being said
According to Balkanweb, SPAK is nearing the completion of its investigations against Berisha and his son-in-law, Malltezi. The investigations revolve around the procedures for the privatization of the former Partizani sports club complex and include abuse of office, corruption and possession and laundering of criminally obtained assets.
Berisha has been under house arrest Since December 2023 after previously ignoring a court appearance order. He is scheduled to appear at SPAK at noon on Wednesday, while Malltezi is expected to arrive a bit later.
Reacting to the news, Flamur Noka, the Secretary General of the Democratic Party sent an urgent message to the party PD leadership and heads of party structures, calling for their mobilization and protests in front of the SPAK building.
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