The Albanian Parliament’s investigative committee for public healthcare services today heard testimony from businessman Ilir Rrapaj regarding the country’s €100 million hospital sterilization concession. Rrapaj, one of the main stakeholders in the consortium awarded the contract in 2015, faces charges of abuse of office, document forgery, and fraud, alongside former Health Minister Ilir Beqaj and ex-Deputy Minister Klodian Rrjepaj.
Rrapaj appeared before the committee today, under the supervision of the Special Prosecution Office (SPAK) and with assistance from the prison authorities. He defended the sterilization program, claiming it had brought Albanian hospitals in line with EU standards. “In May 2016, Albanian public surgery entered the EU, thanks to the standards we adopted,” Rrapaj stated, expressing pride in his involvement.
The sterilization contract, which has entered its final year, covers the sterilization of surgical equipment in state hospitals. SPAK’s investigation has flagged concerns over inflated costs and potential conflicts of interest, as Beqaj, Rrjepaj, and Rrapaj are accused of failing to address irregularities. Rrapaj’s role in the consortium, despite having no prior experience in hospital services, has come under scrutiny.
SPAK’s ongoing investigation also includes the seizure of assets from Rrapaj, including shares in the sterilization company and properties linked to his other business ventures.
Rrapaj and his co-defendants have denied all allegations. Former Minister Beqaj has argued that the reforms in healthcare, particularly sterilization, have saved lives and raised the quality of medical services in Albania.
As the case continues, the parliamentary committee plans further hearings to investigate the full scope of the deal, which critics argue has placed a heavy financial burden on Albania’s public budget.
