RAI3 Investigation Exposes Corruption in Albania, Reveals Bribery of Foreign Representatives

An investigative report by the Italian news program RAI3 has uncovered widespread corruption in Albania, exposing how foreign representatives are bribed to portray the country in a desired manner by those offering the bribes. The documentary reveals that Albania resembles a criminal organization as a country, with the boldness of the Albanian elites on full display.

The investigation highlights how the country's leaders, including Prime Minister Edi Rama, have filled the pockets of their supporters with millions of euros and have bought and sold influential foreigners who help the 'thieving governments' ruin the country. The general secretary of the Albanian prime minister, Angel Agaçi, was questioned by the investigative program 'Report', but he published his own questions and answers with Italian journalists instead of responding directly.

Why this matters: The RAI3 investigation sheds light on the pervasive corruption within the Albanian government and its far-reaching consequences. The exposure of bribery and the involvement of high-ranking officials in criminal activities emphasizes the urgent need for transparency and accountability in Albania's political system.

Agaçi claimed his work as a lawyer, including defending Albanian criminals in Italy, has no public interest or connection to his government role. He denied being the lawyer for drug trafficker Artur Shehu, though Shehu said Agaçi introduced him to a retired Interpol general. Agaçi acknowledged providing legal assistance to some Albanians involved in drug trafficking cases in Italy but refused to disclose client names due to data protection laws.

Prime Minister Edi Rama reacted to the documentary, criticizing the Italian media and defending Engjëll Agaçi, whom he claimed was a 'victim' of 'unparalleled aggression' by Italian television. Rama justified his criticism, stating that he reacted to protect Albania's reputation, as he feels proud of the country and cannot tolerate unfair and scandalous attempts to tarnish its image.

The head of the investigative program Report on RAI3, Sigfrido Ranucci, confirmed that Edi Rama called the leaders of RAI to complain about their program, similar to how the Kremlin has complained about their reporting in the past. Ranucci emphasized that the freedom of the press is invaluable and all countries must respect it, and that if Rama's call was considered as pressure, it would be unacceptable.

The RAI3 investigation has further exposed the extent of corruption in Albania, with the U.S. Department of State (DASH) report also revealing widesprea

Key Takeaways

• Italian documentary exposes widespread corruption in Albania's government.
• Albanian PM Edi Rama accused of bribing foreign representatives to portray Albania favorably.
• PM's secretary Angel Agaçi linked to defending Albanian criminals in Italy.
• Rama criticized Italian media for 'unfair' reporting, called RAI leaders to complain.
• U.S. State Dept. report also reveals extensive corruption in Albania's political system.