Bribery Scandal Rocks High-Ranking Officials and Political Leaders
A shocking revelation has emerged in Albania, implicating high-ranking officials and leaders of political parties in a massive bribery scandal. The accused individuals have allegedly used their positions to demand bribes from managers of international funds and public funds, as well as leadership of state-owned enterprises and commercial banks.
The Scandal
According to reports, the bribe money totals over EUR 20,000, which is a significant amount considering the scale of the corruption. The alleged offenders include not only high-ranking officials but also leaders of political parties, who have allegedly used their influence to further their own interests.
Public Reaction
The scandal has sparked outrage among Albanian citizens, who are demanding accountability from those in power. “This is a clear example of how corruption can destroy trust in our institutions and undermine our economy,” said an angry citizen.
Parliament Moves to Strengthen Anti-Corruption Agency
In response to the scandal, Parliament has announced plans to strengthen the Anti-Corruption Agency (APO) by giving it more authority and resources. The APO will be granted the power to:
- Conduct special investigation measures, including wiretapping and physical observation
- Employ specialists, interpreters, translators, and other staff as needed
- Have a dedicated department for intelligence analysis
- Be led by a chief prosecutor with the authority to select their own team of prosecutors
Other Reforms Announced
In addition to strengthening the APO, Parliament has announced several other reforms aimed at combating corruption. These include:
- Amending legislation to exclude supervision of criminal investigations conducted by the National Anti-Corruption Agency (NAC)
- Abolishing Article 307 of the Criminal Code, which refers to wilfully rendering a judgment, sentence, decision or ruling in breach of the law
- Providing adequate attractive remuneration for APO prosecutors and other staff
- Putting in place proper incentives for those transferred or temporarily exercising their office duties outside their places of habitual residence