Former Albanian minister faces fresh corruption charges in sterilization case

Tirana, 23 December 2024 – Albania’s former Minister of Health, Ilir Beqaj, is facing new corruption charges as part of a widening investigation into a controversial sterilization contract.

The case has gripped the country, with allegations that Beqaj and two others formed a criminal group to misappropriate public funds. Preliminary investigation judge Flojera Davidhi accused the former minister of theft and abuse of office, adding new charges to those already in place.

Key figures and reactions

The charges focus on a sterilization concession signed in 2015, which the judge described as procedurally flawed and intentionally designed to defraud the state. Businessman Ilir Rrapaj, also implicated, collapsed in court upon hearing the accusations, while Beqaj has requested an expedited trial process.

Albania’s anti-corruption agency, SPAK, has agreed with the new charges and called for further investigations into public officials and private contractors. Among those under scrutiny are members of the public procurement commission and an Italian businessman linked to the case.

Meanwhile, the court has scheduled a hearing on 9 January 2025, for defence lawyers to respond to the updated charges.