For the first time, Albanian police fire rubber bullets as protests against Rama escalate
Clashes intensify in Tirana
Demonstrators threw stones, petrol bombs and fireworks near Rama’s office and in other parts of central Tirana. Some also set fire to cars and rubbish bins, leaving burning barricades on streets.
Police pushed back with tear gas, water cannon and batons as protesters pressed against security lines. AFP reported rubber bullets were used for the first time since the demonstrations started; police chief Skender Hita said their deployment was limited.
Students press demands
Students have raised concerns about university costs, inadequate facilities and scarce work opportunities, as well as allegations of corruption in government. Their participation has widened an existing movement against Rama.
At the start of Saturday’s protest, demonstrators set a suitcase on fire and tossed it into the Ministry of Education courtyard. AFP said the act represented a determination to stay in Albania rather than seek better prospects abroad. Journalism student Sinan Billa told AFP, “We are demanding our rights, our future and a better country.”
Movement widens beyond capital
The student protests have joined months of rallies organised by the Flamingo movement. It began in opposition to a luxury tourism project on Albania’s southern coast, linked to an investment company founded by Jared Kushner, son-in-law of US President Donald Trump.
The movement has since expanded its demands to include Rama’s resignation, amid corruption allegations against his government. Rama, serving his fourth term, has rejected calls to step down.
Rama responds to unrest
Rama visited businesses damaged during the unrest on Saturday and said he would hear students’ concerns and defend their right to protest. He also warned against more destruction.
He accused conservative political opponents of fuelling the violence. The clashes have brought grievances over education, unemployment and alleged corruption into a broader confrontation with the government.
Key points
- Students joined five days of protests calling for Prime Minister Edi Rama to resign.
- Authorities said nine protesters and four officers received medical treatment on Saturday.
- Local media reported that protests and road blockades also occurred in Durres.