Albanian court orders Sali Berisha to report twice a month amid corruption probe

Tirana, January 3, 2025 -Albania’s Special Appeal Court has ruled that former prime minister and Democratic Party leader Sali Berisha must report to authorities twice a month, rejecting a prosecution request to reinstate house arrest.

The decision follows an appeal by the Special Prosecution Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK), which sought to overturn Berisha’s release in late November. He had been under house arrest for nearly a year, accused of passive corruption linked to the controversial privatization of the Partizani sports complex.

High-profile allegations

Prosecutors allege that Berisha used his position to push through legislation benefiting five families, including his son-in-law, Jamarbër Malltezi. Malltezi, who allegedly profited millions from the deal, faces charges of corruption and money laundering.

Others implicated include businessman Fatmir Bektashi and financier Andia Pustina, both accused of money laundering.