Albanian special prosecutors have formally requested the arrest of Arben Ahmetaj, a current lawmaker and former deputy prime minister, on corruption charges. The accusations include failing to declare assets and involvement in illicit activities related to public waste management contracts. Ahmetaj served as deputy prime minister and also held the positions of minister of finance and economy under Prime Minister Edi Rama. Due to his parliamentary immunity, his arrest requires approval from Parliament. Authorities have temporarily seized two of Ahmetaj's villas as part of the ongoing investigation.
This investigation into waste management contracts also implicates other former and current officials, as well as two business individuals, who are currently on trial. This issue represents a significant challenge for Albania's government and is a key area of focus in its pursuit of European Union membership. If convicted, Ahmetaj faces a potential prison sentence of up to 12 years. This case highlights the ongoing struggle against corruption in Albania, a problem that has persisted throughout its transition to democracy. A 2016 judicial reform, backed by the US and EU, established new institutions to combat corruption, resulting in the dismissal of numerous judges and prosecutors accused of illicit gains and corruption.
