Artan Grubi faces charges in State Lottery corruption case

Former Deputy Prime Minister Artan Grubi faces charges related to the State Lottery case, involving allegations of abuse of official position and authority. The case concerns the illegal arrangement of electronic games of chance on video lottery terminals, stemming from a 2013 non-monetary contribution valued at approximately 6.2 million euros.

The political party Levica has criticized the ruling VMRO-DPMNE, labeling the legal proceedings a “reshel” (disgrace). Levica argues that while the initial investigation in December 2024 suggested potential misappropriation of over 501 million denars—a crime carrying a sentence of four to twenty years—the current indictment carries a maximum penalty of only five years. The party is demanding an explanation for this significant reduction in the legal qualification of the crime.

Grubi remains in custody until October 13. Legal analysts note that depending on the court's decisions and whether he pleads guilty, he may be able to defend himself from freedom following the indictment. The charges involve Grubi and several co-defendants accused of being co-perpetrators in the misuse of their official roles.