Former Lebanese central bank chief transferred to hospital amid worsening health
Riad Salameh, the ex-governor of Lebanon’s central bank, was moved from Roumieh Prison to Dahr el-Bachek Hospital for medical tests after his condition declined.
Lebanon’s former central bank governor Riad Salameh was taken from Roumieh Prison to Dahr el-Bachek Hospital on the order of Judge Ahmad Rami al-Hajj for comprehensive medical evaluation, including cardiac and respiratory tests. Salameh, 76, has been on hunger strike since his detention on embezzlement, illicit enrichment and money-laundering accusations and has declined both food and medication. His attending physician reported a sharp rise in blood pressure and a worsening condition, prompting his lawyer to call his health “extremely unstable.”
A scheduled court appearance was postponed after Salameh experienced a medical emergency while being escorted to the hearing. Authorities had previously lost track of him before locating him at Bhannes Hospital under police guard. The case stems from a complaint filed by current central bank governor Karim Souaid, alleging large-scale financial misconduct during Salameh’s three-decade tenure.
Why it matters
Salameh’s health and legal troubles highlight Lebanon’s deep financial crisis and ongoing corruption investigations.
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