Albanian police fire rubber bullets as protests against Rama escalate
Five days of clashes rock Tirana as students join a wider movement demanding Prime Minister Edi Rama's resignation.
On the fifth day of anti-government protests in Albania, police used rubber bullets and arrested numerous demonstrators. The unrest, which has spread nationwide, began as students and others gathered in front of the Ministry of Education in Tirana. The protests intensified after high school and university students joined the broader movement demanding Prime Minister Edi Rama's resignation over corruption allegations.
They also seek improvements in education, financial aid, and job prospects. Opposition to a controversial luxury tourism project associated with Jared Kushner, President Donald Trump's son-in-law, has fueled the movement. In Tirana, police clashed with protesters, who hurled stones while authorities responded with tear gas, water cannons, and rubber bullets.
After a brief dispersal, demonstrators resumed throwing stones at officers. Prime Minister Rama acknowledged the right to protest but condemned masked individuals damaging businesses, stating those responsible would face legal consequences. The police reported 167 arrests and 132 injured officers over the five days. Seven officers have been suspended while investigations into excessive force allegations continue.
Rama, serving his fourth term, ruled out resigning and blamed conservative opponents for provoking the unrest, emphasizing his commitment to protecting citizens, ensuring justice, and advancing Albania's future.
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