Former Political Leaders Implicated in Money Laundering, Extortion, and Illegal Land Deals
A wide-ranging corruption investigation by the Macedonian special prosecutor has uncovered new evidence of wrongdoing in dozens of deals by VMRO-DPMNE, the right-wing party that ruled the country between 2006 and 2017. The party is accused of illegally collecting at least €4.6 million through a money laundering and extortion scheme, accepting illegal donations to build its lavish “White Palace” headquarters in Skopje, and purchasing at least 68 other properties across the country worth €17.5 million.
Key Findings
- Illegal collection of at least €4.6 million through money laundering and extortion
- Acceptance of illegal donations for building the “White Palace” headquarters
- Purchase of at least 68 properties across the country worth €17.5 million
Former Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski Implicated
Nikola Gruevski, who fled to Hungary last November, is among those charged with money laundering and abuse of his official position. Gruevski has been convicted in related cases as part of a broader government corruption probe.
Other Accused Individuals
- Orce Kamcev, the richest man in the country, and his connections with former Chief of Security and Counter-Intelligence Saso Mijalkov are being investigated for criminal association, damage to creditors, abuse of office, fraud, and money laundering.
- Saso Mijalkov, the former Head of the Administration for Security and Counter-Intelligence, was brought to court for trial on election irregularities charges.
House Arrest Requested
The Special Public Prosecutor’s Office requested house arrest instead of custody for several accused individuals in the “Empire” case. This includes Orce Kamcev and Saso Mijalkov.
Former Head of Security and Counter-Intelligence Held in Custody
Saso Mijalkov was brought to court for trial on election irregularities charges, including receiving money for unlawful influence and abuse of official position.
Ex-PM Nikola Gruevski Flees Country
Gruevski fled Macedonia last November after being sentenced to two years in prison for abusing his position to purchase a luxury car. He has sought political asylum in Hungary.
Former Minister Jailed
Gordana Jankuloska, the former Interior Minister, was sentenced to six years in prison for abusing her position and authority in the purchase of a €600,000 bulletproof Mercedes while she was in office.
Sale of EDS Raises Questions
The sale of the Macedonian Electricity Trading and Supply Company (EDS) to the Greek Electricity Distribution Company (DEI) has raised concerns about potential criminal activity. The deal was worth approximately €4.8 million, with some questioning why the Deputy Prime Minister received payment on his personal accounts.
Public Reaction
These latest revelations have sparked widespread outrage in Macedonia, with many calling for greater accountability and transparency from government officials.