After France and Belgium, Mass Unrest Engulfs Albania’s Capital
Students have been causing havoc in Albania’s capital for three days. They are protesting widespread corruption, high tuition fees, and the poor quality of their education.
Clashes with police have turned violent. Protesters are throwing stones and using fireworks and Molotov cocktails. Police are responding with water cannons and tear gas.
Local authorities report that 51 police officers have been injured and 70 people have been detained. Protesters have thrown Molotov cocktails at government buildings across Tirana.
The Justice Ministry building has been set on fire. Part of the Education Ministry building and a police station in the city center have also been burned. Protesters have broken into the state archives. Those who stormed the parliament building also threw bottles filled with incendiary mixtures inside.
The protesters’ main demand is the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama, who is serving his fourth term in office. They gave him until 1 p.m. on Thursday to step down. As expected, he refused to leave office.
