In a significant development, Sam Jaber, a board member of Invest Alberta Corp., has voluntarily stepped back from his responsibilities just days after the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) executed a search warrant at his accounting firm, Jaberson & Associates, in Edmonton. This action forms part of a broader criminal investigation scrutinising allegations of procurement irregularities within Alberta’s healthcare sector.
Details of the Investigation
Premier Danielle Smith’s administration appointed Jaber to the Invest Alberta board in late 2023. The recent police activity, which included a search of Jaberson & Associates, has raised questions about the integrity of procurement processes involving Alberta Health Services (AHS). The controversy initially came to light in February when reports surfaced regarding inflated contracts awarded to private firms and the potential for political interference in the healthcare agency.
The RCMP confirmed in March 2025 that they are investigating allegations surrounding procurement practices at AHS, including contracts signed by the agency. One notable example is MHCare Medical Corp., which secured a $70 million contract in late 2022 to import children’s medication from Turkey. Alarmingly, despite receiving nearly the full payment, only a third of the promised medication was delivered to Alberta.
Jaber’s Position and Response
In a statement posted to Invest Alberta’s website, it was announced that Jaber has requested a temporary leave of absence. This decision was framed as a means for him to focus his energies on the organisation’s objectives without the distraction of ongoing investigations. “The Board Chair has accepted this request,” the statement indicated.
Matthew Nathanson, Jaber’s legal representative, expressed confidence in his client’s innocence. “We are confident that a fair and balanced investigation will reach this conclusion,” Nathanson stated in an email. Meanwhile, both Jaber and MHCare’s owner, Sam Mraiche, have denied any wrongdoing.
Political Reactions and Implications
The procurement scandal has drawn political scrutiny, particularly from the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP). Naheed Nenshi, the NDP leader, questioned why Jaber’s leave was voluntary rather than a mandated action from the government. In response, Joseph Schow, the Government House Leader, confirmed that Jaber had “stepped down” and praised Invest Alberta’s ongoing efforts to attract investment to the province.
Invest Alberta has refrained from further comment beyond the official statement. The organisation emphasised that its remaining board members will continue their crucial work in fostering economic growth and diversification in Alberta during this period.
The RCMP’s investigation has extended beyond Jaber, with police also attending the residence of Jitendra Prasad, a former senior procurement official at AHS with connections to Mraiche. Records reveal that discussions about Jaber’s appointment to Invest Alberta’s board were prioritised by the Premier’s Office in late 2023, culminating in a formal appointment four weeks later.
Why it Matters
The unfolding investigation into procurement practices within Alberta’s healthcare system raises significant concerns about transparency and accountability in government dealings. The implications of these allegations extend beyond individual actors, potentially impacting public trust in the province’s governance. As the situation develops, the scrutiny on both the individuals involved and the broader systemic issues within the healthcare procurement process will likely continue to intensify, underscoring the need for robust oversight and reform in public sector contracting.
