Tirana protests turn violent as police use force against thousands
More than 300 people were injured and dozens arrested during clashes that targeted government buildings in the Albanian capital.
By Fatima Davis ·
Police in Tirana fired tear gas and water cannon on Saturday to break up a large antigovernment rally.
Authorities reported that more than 300 protesters and officers were injured in the clashes. Dozens of demonstrators were also taken into custody. Several government buildings sustained damage after attackers targeted them.
The unrest marks a new escalation in a wave of protests that started in mid-October. The demonstrations originally focused on poor conditions in schools and rising living costs. Tensions had eased in recent days, but Saturday's event drew thousands of people to the streets. Organizers called on students and residents from across the country to attend. University professors, artists, and opposition parties announced their support for the rally. Local media noted that police increased security measures and checked vehicles entering the capital.
The Ministry of Education became a primary target for the crowd. Protesters threw stones at the building and rolled burning trash bins toward it. This focus reflects the broader anger over public services and economic pressure.
Antigovernment sentiment in Albania has been building since May. That period saw the revelation of a luxury hotel project linked to the family of U.S. President Donald Trump. The issue expanded into a wider campaign against corruption and high costs. Protesters are now demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama, a Socialist leader.
Rama has attributed the violence to foreign actors. He accused Russia and Iran of driving online misinformation campaigns. The prime minister has called for dialogue to resolve the crisis. On Saturday, red cushions were placed outside the government headquarters as a symbolic invitation to negotiate. Protesters later set the cushions on fire. Some demonstrators also carried signs criticizing Sali Berisha, the centre-right leader who rivals Rama. This indicates that the anger is directed at the entire political class rather than just the ruling party.
Source: Al Jazeera
