Former Central Bank Governor Salameh Hospitalized Amid Conflicting Health Reports
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Former Central Bank governor Riad Salameh was transferred to a hospital near Roumieh Prison due to a reported health deterioration.
- Judicial sources cited rapidly worsening blood pressure as the reason for his transfer.
- However, the state prosecutor initially stated the transfer was for routine medical examinations, not a health emergency, and Salameh reportedly refused procedures.
Former Central Bank governor Riad Salameh was transferred to Daher al-Bashek Hospital on Monday, a facility located near Roumieh Prison, following a reported deterioration in his health. A judicial source informed the al-Modon news portal that Salameh's condition had worsened rapidly in recent hours, with particular concern over his blood pressure, necessitating the move to prevent potentially life-threatening complications.
This transfer occurred despite an earlier instruction from State Prosecutor Judge Ahmad Rami al-Hajj. The National News Agency reported that al-Hajj had directed the prison administration to move Salameh for "routine medical examinations" and explicitly stated it was "not due to any health deterioration." The prosecutor had ordered medical examinations, including an electrocardiogram (ECG) and a respiratory test, noting that Salameh's blood pressure was stable.
Salameh's health had rapidly worsened in recent hours, particularly his blood pressure, which necessitated his transfer to Daher al-Bashek Hospital to prevent any further health complications that could be life-threatening.
However, reports indicate that Salameh refused to undergo any medical procedures, including the ECG and respiratory test. In response, Judge al-Hajj has tasked the Brummana detachment of the Internal Security Forces with documenting Salameh's refusal. An official report, including audio and video evidence, is to be prepared to record his non-compliance with the medical examinations and medication.
The situation highlights ongoing legal and health concerns surrounding the former central bank governor, who faces multiple investigations. The conflicting reports regarding the urgency of his health condition and his subsequent refusal of medical treatment add another layer of complexity to his legal proceedings.
routine medical examinations and not due to any health deterioration
Originally published by Naharnet in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.