Tirana protests enter sixth day as Edi Rama refuses to resign
Violent protests in Tirana continued for a sixth consecutive day on Sunday, with hundreds gathering outside Albania’s Ministry of Education and demanding Prime Minister Edi Rama’s resignation. Police used rubber bullets, water cannons and tear gas to contain the crowds, while demonstrators targeted government buildings and the area around Rama’s office. Shops and public institutions installed metal shutters, and workers removed paving stones that could be used as projectiles.
The Health Ministry said 65 people were injured in the latest clashes, including 37 police officers, and 12 were hospitalised. Since Tuesday, 272 people have been hurt, among them 169 officers. Protesters are calling for better education, more jobs and action against alleged corruption, as well as an end to Rama’s government.
Rama, in office since 2013 and now serving a fourth term, has ruled out stepping down. He said he was willing to discuss students’ legitimate concerns and education costs, but insisted those responsible for property damage must face consequences. He also alleged a “foreign hand” in the unrest and warned that continued disorder could jeopardise Albania’s ambition to join the European Union by 2030. The demonstrations follow months of discontent, including the “Flamingo Revolution” protests that began in May over a proposed luxury development in southern Albania linked to Jared Kushner.
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