The Albanian Special Prosecutor's Office for Organized Crime and Corruption (SPAK) has launched an investigation against the former president of the country, Ilir Meta, almost two months after the end of his term as head of state, the Exit site reports, BTA broadcasts.

SPAK has requested from the Central Election Commission (CEC) a copy of his declaration, as submitted by every candidate participating in elections.

The document must include information about the person's financial situation, criminal record and other matters, and it is a criminal offense to fill it out incorrectly or not include information.

"In connection with the interest of many journalists in SPAK because of the request that SPAK sent to the CEC, we specify that the request is part of investigations conducted by the Special Prosecutor's Office within the framework of criminal proceedings registered on the basis of the testimony of citizen Halit Valteri. We have no other information to provide. Investigations are ongoing," SPAK said.

Former MP Halit Valteri accused Meta in June of "active and passive corruption" in the private sector, concealment of assets, non-payment of taxes and obligations and abuse of office.

"For the purposes of the investigation in this criminal proceeding, we have requested a copy of the declaration of personal responsibility under the law "On guaranteeing the integrity of persons who are elected, appointed or hold public offices", submitted by the former deputy Ilir Meta", states a message of SPAC.

Bayram Begai was elected as the new president of Albania

Earlier this week, Meta said he intended to sue the Dossier over the revelation that he had been an informant for the infamous communist secret service Sigourimi.

That should prevent him from running for public office, but a previous ruling declaring him "clean" is not subject to legal appeal, the site notes.

"There are no files and there can be no files on Ilir Recep Meta ... I am telling you that on September 1st I will file a case against the office for manipulation of files and violations," Meta said at a press conference.

Albania

investigating for corruption