Albania’s anti-corruption drive has taken centre stage with the opening of the trial of former president, Ilir Meta, in Tirana.
Meta, his ex-wife, former mother-in-law, and two other defendants are facing charges of passive corruption, money laundering, and false declaration of assets.
He has been in detention since October 2024, after his arrest upon returning to Albania from Kosovo. Prosecutors allege the offences span several years, including his time as economy minister in 2010. Meta denies all the allegations, insisting they are politically motivated.
Appearing in court inside a glass enclosure, Meta requested that the proceedings be broadcast live for public transparency.
“Out of respect for the citizens to whom I have served with dedication, I publicly request that the special court guarantees the live broadcast of this entire trial”, he said.
Once an ally of Prime Minister, Edi Rama, Meta has held several top positions in Albania’s post-communist political history, including prime minister from 1999 to 2002, multiple ministerial roles, and later president from 2017 to 2022.
His trial comes amid a wider anti-corruption push in Albania, where several senior political figures are facing prosecution.
A separate case is ongoing against former prime minister, Sali Berisha, while Rama’s former deputy prime minister, Belinda Balluku, also faces graft allegations.
The case has been adjourned, with the next hearing scheduled for May 11.
