Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama Denounces Rai3 Report on Corruption Allegations

In a recent interview, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama dismissed allegations of corruption and mafia ties presented by Italian media outlet Rai3. The report, which focuses on corruption, illegal contracts, and money laundering in Albania's construction sector, has been described by Rama as 'disgusting.'

Why this matters: The allegations of corruption and mafia ties in Albania's government have significant implications for the country's political stability and international relationships. If true, these allegations could lead to a loss of trust in the government and potential economic consequences.

Rai3's investigation highlights the delayed construction of reception centers for immigrants, an agreement between Albania and Italy that has faced significant setbacks. Despite promises to open the centers by May 20, they remain unfinished. The site supervisor has assured that 'the work will be finished in November.'

The report alleges that 60% of the 3.7 billion euro investment in Albanian real estate in 2023 is linked to corruption or suspected drug trafficking. Specific contracts, including that for the positioning of assembled facilities in Gjader, were awarded to Ri Group Spa, a company linked to Salvatore Tafuro, who was indicted for bid rigging and corruption in 2019.

Further complicating matters, the management contract for the centers went to Medihospes, a company associated with La Cascina, a cooperative involved in past corruption investigations. Other Italian companies, including Pietro Urso's lobbying firm, Italian World Service, have also been implicated in corrupt practices in Albania.

Amid these allegations, former Albanian Deputy Prime Minister Arben Ahmetaj has made explosive claims about the involvement of criminal groups in the country's politics and economy. Ahmetaj alleges that these groups win contracts through 'frontmen' and launder money through construction, coordinating with Prime Minister Rama. He even claims to have met mafia leaders in Rama's office.

Rama has vehemently denied these accusations, dismissing Ahmetaj as someone 'who should not be taken seriously' and insisting that Albanian politics is not contaminated by the mafia. However, Rai3's investigation uncovered evidence of a meeting between Rama and Luftar Hysa, identified by Canadian authorities as a leader of the Sinaloa cartel.

The controversy extends to Italian entrepreneurs, including former Prime Minister Massimo D'Alema, who has been accused of dealing with cryptocurrencies in Albania. D'Alema has denied these allegations.

The investigation continues, and the next episode of Rai3's report on Albania is scheduled to air on June 5. The ongoing scrutiny highlights the complex web of allegations and denials that characterize the current political climate in Albania.

Key Takeaways

• Albanian PM Edi Rama denies corruption and mafia ties allegations by Italian media outlet Rai3.
• Report alleges 60% of Albania's 2023 real estate investment is linked to corruption or drug trafficking.
• Former Deputy PM Arben Ahmetaj claims criminal groups coordinate with Rama to win contracts and launder money.
• Rai3's investigation uncovers evidence of Rama's meeting with alleged Sinaloa cartel leader Luftar Hysa.
• Allegations also implicate Italian entrepreneurs, including former PM Massimo D'Alema, in corrupt practices.