The decision of the Special Court Against Corruption (SPAK) regarding the case of the elected mayor of Himara, Fredi Beleris, and his associate Pantelis Kokavesis has been officially issued, according to which the New Democracy candidate for the European Parliament is sentenced to two years in prison.
Although this development has a procedural nature, it essentially marks the beginning of the process for the trial of the case in the second instance, with Fredi Beleris entitled to appeal within 15 days according to Albanian law.
The appeal will be adjudicated by the same court, and according to ERT, Beleris’ side is expected to file the appeal even within the week.
It is reminded that if the sentence remains upheld in the second instance, Mr. Beleris will remain in Fier prison until September 12th, as each day of the sentence counts as one and a half.
Another issue is when the appeal trial will be scheduled, with information suggesting that the hearing could take place between May 10th and 25th.
However, if the sentence is not reduced and Beleris is elected as a Member of the European Parliament, then the following paradox arises: he will be both the elected mayor of Himara and a Member of the European Parliament, while remaining imprisoned in Albanian jails.
“Fredi Beleris is a person who symbolizes the struggle for the rule of law and human rights,” the Greek government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis stated, referring to the case.
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