Tirana Prosecution Office wrapped up its investigations and took citizen Nikolle Deda to court for the criminal offense of “Abuse of Office,” as stipulated under Article 248 of the Penal Code.

The investigations, under criminal case no. 1630 of 2024, substantiated that the accused, in his capacity as President of the Dental Association, authorized the employment of his relatives without adherence to appropriate criteria, intending to influence and manipulate the decision-making processes of the National Council since 2016.

The investigations revealed that, through his actions and inactions, N.D. fostered a "private control climate" by concentrating the functions of the regional councils under his authority. This included both the management of the Dental Association’s budget at the regional level and the oversight of the licensing process for dentists seeking to practice independently.

He continued to carry out his duties despite being suspended from office, in flagrant violation of judicial decisions and legal provisions. During this period, through the structures of the Dental Association, he made significant decisions, including the purchase of a building worth 700,000 euros, covering an area of 350m², and the acquisition of a loan of 250,000 euros for 'purchasing premises.'

Through his actions, the individual N.D. has violated the object of Law No. 127/2014, which regulates the legal and ethical professional relations of dentists. Furthermore, he has fostered ' a climate of private control' by concentrating in his hands the functions of the regional councils, particularly the management of the budget at the regional level and the licensing of dentists for independent professional practice.

Despite being indicted and currently facing judicial proceedings under Article 320 of the Penal Code in a separate case, he has actively taken steps to further concentrate authority in his hands, abusing his power and exploiting the structures of the Dental Association (USSH) for this purpose.          

As per above, the prosecution decided to refer the case for trial, as both the charges and the evidence are comprehensively substantiated for the offense under Article 197 of the Criminal Code.