The US Department of State has declared former Prime Minister and President of Albania, Sali Berisha and his family members persona non grata. The decision was taken on Wednesday under Section 7031(c) of the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Act. The Section gives the US Secretary of State the power to implement a lifelong ban on entering the US for corrupt officials.

Secretary Antony Blinken wrote on twitter: Former President of Albania Sali Berisha’s corrupt acts undermined democracy in Albania. I am publicly designating Berisha and his immediate family members as ineligible for entry into the United States. We remain united against corruption with our partners in Albania.