TIRANA, April 11 /ATA/ – A Freedom House annual report praises the Special Anti-Corruption and Organized Crime Prosecution Structure (SPAK) for the fight against corruption and organized crime in Albania.
In its latest Nations in Transit Report 2024, the Washington-based organization underlines that corruption remains a worrying phenomenon in Albania.
“SPAK has made significant strides in its investigations into high-level corruption cases, gradually improving its results. Notably, in 2023, SPAK brought charges against several key politicians in Albania, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s fight against corruption and becoming one of the few functional justice and prosecution bodies, amidst ongoing vetting processes throughout the year.
One of the prominent cases highlighted in the report is SPAK’s investigation into former Prime Minister Sali Berisha for corruption. Berisha’s alleged involvement in corrupt practices has led to his declaration as persona non grata by the United States and the United Kingdom, adding that Berisha’s political faction has become a “violent group” with intentions to destabilize the country and, consequently, his arrest has been welcomed by many.
The report also highlights SPAK’s indictment of former Deputy Prime Minister Arben Ahmetaj for corruption. Ahmetaj’s case resulted in an international arrest warrant after his departure from Albania.
According to the Freedom House report, “after SPAK’s investigations and indictments brought forward against Berisha and Ahmetaj, as well as the exposure of connections between several organized crime groups with businesses, politicians and law enforcement agencies”, an increasing disinformation campaign has been noticed being launched by several news portals and high-level political figures in the government and opposition to discredit SPAK’s work.
Despite its commendable efforts, SPAK faces significant challenges, as noted by Freedom House. Attacks against its judges and prosecutors from various political parties pose a threat to its integrity and independence. The failure of political parties to distance themselves from accused officials within their ranks exacerbates this challenge, perpetuating a culture of impunity and undermining the rule of law.
In conclusion, Freedom House’s report provides valuable insights into SPAK’s ongoing battle against corruption in Albania. While progress has been made, significant hurdles remain on the path to a more transparent and accountable governance system.
/VOA/u.sh/
