Albania’s former President Ilir Meta has been detained by police over corruption allegations, sparking controversy and unrest among his supporters. Meta’s spokesperson and lawyer condemned the arrest, claiming it was inappropriate and would be rejected by patriotic Albanians.
The arrest, captured in footage by local media, showed police stopping Meta’s car and him resisting. Though the accusations of corruption, money laundering, and hiding wealth have not been verified, Meta’s lawyer confirmed the allegations, which the former president denies.
The arrest of Meta, who served as president until 2022, adds to the list of opposition figures facing criminal charges in Albania. The Democratic Party, the largest opposition group, has also been embroiled in political turmoil with members facing jail time on what they claim are politically motivated charges.
The ongoing dispute between the opposition and Prime Minister Edi Rama’s government has heightened tensions, with accusations of orchestrated prosecutions on both sides. The situation remains volatile as political rifts deepen in Albania.