Full Breakdown
Lebanon Indicts Former Central Bank Governor Riad Salameh for Embezzlement
1/13/2026, 9:34:57 PM
Indictment Details and Charges
Lebanese prosecutors have indicted Riad Salameh, the former governor of the Lebanese Central Bank, along with two lawyers, Marwan Issa el-Khoury and Michel John Tueni, on multiple charges including embezzlement of public funds, forgery, and illicit enrichment. The indictment, issued by Beirut's indictment chamber, alleges that Salameh and the lawyers embezzled $44.8 million from a central bank "consultancy account." Salameh, who led the central bank for three decades, was detained for approximately 13 months over these financial crimes and was released in September 2023 after posting bail exceeding $14 million. He remains in Lebanon under a travel ban and has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
Background and Context
Salameh's tenure as governor ended amid a series of domestic and international investigations into his financial activities. Allegations suggest that over $300 million may have been siphoned off from the central bank between 2002 and 2015. The Lebanese Central Bank has initiated a criminal complaint against several individuals, including a former senior bank official and a lawyer, for alleged illicit enrichment through the misuse of public funds. The acting governor of the central bank, Wassim Mansouri, has indicated that the institution will act as a principal plaintiff in ongoing investigations.
Key Figures Involved
- Riad Salameh: Former governor of the Lebanese Central Bank, indicted for embezzlement and other financial crimes.
- Marwan Issa el-Khoury: One of the lawyers indicted, who claims he has no knowledge of the "consultancy account" and asserts that he has not received any funds from the central bank.
- Michel John Tueni: The second lawyer indicted, who has not publicly commented on the charges.
- Raja Salameh: Riad Salameh's brother, who controls Forry Associates, a company under investigation for allegedly receiving commissions from commercial banks.
Criticism & Opposition
El-Khoury has publicly stated that the indictment is premature, arguing that the inquiry should be completed before any accusations are made. He maintains that he has not been involved in any financial transactions related to the central bank and has not received any funds from it.
International Investigations
The Salameh brothers are also under investigation in several countries, including France, Germany, and Switzerland, for alleged embezzlement. These international inquiries add another layer to the scrutiny surrounding Riad Salameh's financial dealings.
What's Next
The Lebanese judicial authorities are expected to continue their investigations into the financial activities of Salameh and the implicated lawyers. The central bank's role as a principal plaintiff in the investigation against Forry Associates may lead to further developments in the case.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Khoury said the inquiry had already proved that he had not received any funds from the central bank or any fees in relation to its financial transactions.” — Marwan Issa el-Khoury, Lawyer
This indictment marks a significant moment in Lebanon's ongoing struggle with corruption and financial mismanagement, reflecting broader concerns about governance and accountability in the country.
