Lebanese Judge Lifts Travel Ban on Central Bank Chief Ahead of Paris Hearing

(MENAFN) Lebanon’s central bank chief, Riad Salameh, who has been the target of a series of judicial investigations for alleged fraud, money laundering, and illicit enrichment, among other allegations, is set to have a travel ban lifted by a Lebanese judge. This comes ahead of Salameh’s hearing in Paris next month, where he has been summoned to answer questions on the allegations against him. Despite being part of a political class widely blamed for Lebanon’s unprecedented economic crisis, Salameh denies any wrongdoing.

The travel ban was imposed on Salameh by Judge Ghada Aoun in January last year, following a lawsuit filed by an activist group alleging financial misconduct. The lifting of the ban comes after another judicial official confirmed that Salameh will have no excuse not to attend the hearing in France.

Salameh’s case is not limited to Lebanon, as he is also being investigated in France, where assets worth 120 million euros ($130 million) were seized last year by French, German, and Luxembourg authorities. The move was linked to a probe into Salameh’s personal wealth, and the allegations of financial misconduct leveled against him.

The lifting of the travel ban is expected to allow Salameh to travel to France to defend himself against the accusations made against him. However, the move may add to the frustrations of many Lebanese citizens who hold the political elite, including Salameh, responsible for the country’s economic crisis. The World Bank has described the crisis as being of a scale usually associated with wars, highlighting the severity of the situation faced by the Lebanese people.

In the midst of ongoing investigations and mounting allegations against Salameh, the lifting of the travel ban could be a significant turning point in the case, allowing for further proceedings to take place. However, it remains to be seen whether Salameh’s appearance in France will bring any clarity to the accusations against him or whether they will continue to cast a shadow over his position as Lebanon’s central bank chief.

MENAFN13042023000045012476ID1106001669