Former Albanian President Ilir Meta Arrested for Corruption

Former Albanian President Ilir Meta has been arrested on allegations of corruption, money laundering, and concealing personal income. A court ruled that he will remain in custody as investigations continue, which could lead to a 12-year prison sentence if charges are filed. Meta's arrest follows a five-year investigation led by Albania's Special Structure Against Corruption and Organized Crime and has been criticized by his supporters as a politically motivated attack by the current Prime Minister Edi Rama. Meta, who served as president from 2017 to 2022 and leads the left-wing Freedom Party, claims his arrest was reminiscent of a 'bandit-like' abduction. His ex-wife, Monika Kryemadhi, also faces similar allegations. The situation raises concerns about political stability in Albania ahead of the upcoming elections in 2025.