Albanian incinerators scandal

The Albanian incinerator scandal refers to allegations of corruption and collusion between senior officials in the Rama government and private businessmen involving the construction and operation of three municipal waste incinerators in Elbasan, Fier and Tirana. The Balkan Investigative Reporting Network (BIRN) described the incinerator concessions as among the most controversial public-private partnerships of the Rama administration, with Albania's Supreme State Audit estimating potential costs to taxpayers exceeding €350 million over 30 years.

Prosecutors allege that senior officials misused public funds by awarding concession contracts in exchange for financial compensation. An investigation was initiated in 2021 following a criminal complaint by the Democratic Party (PD) and the Socialist Movement for Integration (LSI).

In 2022, 21 individuals and 12 legal entities were prosecuted over the Elbasan and Fier incinerator projects for corruption, money laundering, and related charges. In 2023, former minister Lefter Koka received 6 years and 8 months, Former Secretary-General of the Ministry of Environment Alqi Bllako 2 years and 8 months, and businessman Klodian Zoto 12 years. The verdict was overturned in 2024, and a retrial was ordered.

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