Tag: Bribery

AIGovernmentInnovation

Albania Appoints AI as Minister in Groundbreaking Governance Experiment

Albania has appointed an AI system named Diella as a virtual minister overseeing public procurement. The unprecedented move aims to eliminate corruption in government contracting but raises critical questions about accountability and transparency in algorithmic governance.

Historic Appointment in Government Technology

Albania has become the first nation to appoint an artificial intelligence system to a ministerial position, according to reports from international media outlets. The AI system, named Diella, previously served as an e-government assistant helping citizens with digital paperwork before receiving its promotion to cabinet-level responsibility for public procurement. The Balkan country of 2.8 million people announced the unprecedented move last month, surprising many observers in the AI industry.

by Darren Holt
BusinessLegal

Smartmatic Faces Federal Bribery and Money Laundering Charges in Philippines Contract Case

Smartmatic has been added to a federal indictment alleging company executives participated in a bribery scheme targeting Philippine election officials. The voting technology company faces charges of violating the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and money laundering violations. Smartmatic’s spokesman categorically denied the allegations, claiming political influence in the case.

Voting Technology Company Added to Federal Indictment

Federal prosecutors have expanded their case against Smartmatic executives by adding the company itself to an indictment alleging bribery of Philippine election officials, according to reports filed in U.S. District Court. The superseding indictment, filed in the Southern District of Florida, adds criminal charges of money laundering and foreign bribery against the voting technology company directly.

by Darren Holt