Albania’s PM Points Finger at Opposition as Tirana Unrest Continues
Prime Minister Edi Rama accused the opposition of orchestrating student protests that turned violent in Tirana for a second night. Government buildings, businesses, police vehicles and a police station were attacked, while police used tear gas and water cannon. Health authorities said 79 people were treated at a trauma hospital, most of them police officers, and parliament canceled its Thursday session.
The unrest followed a demonstration that started Tuesday outside the education ministry. Participants demanded the government step down, improved university conditions, and relief from living costs. The action was initially convened by activists linked to the “Flamingo Revolution,” whose daily gatherings began in June over environmental issues before becoming an anti-government campaign.
During Wednesday’s clashes, fires damaged the first floor of the education ministry and the College of Europe office. The prime minister’s office, parliament, constitutional court, finance, interior, infrastructure and energy ministries, nearby businesses, police cars, and a police station were also targeted. Skirmishes lasted past midnight; some participants wore masks and threw stones and petrol bombs.
The clashes may deepen distrust among students, police, and political institutions in Albania. Hospital workers and officers already faced pressure after dozens were treated, while the cancelled parliamentary session could delay routine governance. If unrest continues, central Tirana businesses and residents could see further disruption, and competing accusations may harden divisions