The key facts

  • Protests in Albania have been going on for a fifth day and have spread to cities across the country; schoolchildren and students have joined the movement.
  • Police used tear gas, two water cannons and rubber bullets; 167 people were detained, 132 police officers were injured, and seven officers were suspended pending an investigation into claims of excessive force.
  • Prime Minister Edi Rama rejected calls to resign and accused conservative opponents of fueling the clashes; the movement is partly linked to opposition to a tourism project associated with Jared Kushner.

Fifth day of protests and clashes in Tirana

On Saturday, students and other protesters gathered outside the education ministry in Tirana as anti-government demonstrations in Albania continued for the fifth consecutive day. The protests have spread to cities across the country and intensified after schoolchildren and students joined the broader movement, demanding the resignation of Socialist Prime Minister Edi Rama over corruption allegations. Participants are also demanding improvements to education, greater financial support and better employment opportunities. The movement has been partly fueled by opposition to a controversial luxury tourism development project linked to Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of US President Donald Trump.

Police actions

According to Euronews Albania, violent clashes broke out in the capital: protesters threw stones at police, who responded with tear gas. Police also deployed two water cannon vehicles and fired rubber bullets in an attempt to disperse the demonstrators. The protesters briefly retreated but then returned and again threw stones at police officers.

Authorities' position and detention figures

Prime Minister Edi Rama said he supports the right of students and other Albanians to protest, but warned that masked individuals vandalizing shops are committing crimes and those responsible for the damage will be held accountable. Police reported that 167 people have been detained and 132 police officers injured during five days of unrest. According to police chief Skender Hita, seven police officers have been suspended from duty while an investigation into claims of excessive use of force is underway.

Rama rejects resignation

Rama, in power since 2013 and serving his fourth term, ruled out his resignation and accused conservative opponents of fueling the clashes. In a video address, he said: 'I will not allow anyone to jeopardize the future of this country... not for the political gain of those who, with their evil hand, sow disorder and destruction,' adding that his responsibility is 'to protect citizens, guarantee justice and move Albania forward.'