Albania Protests Hit Day 7: Molotovs, Tear Gas Rock Tirana
(MENAFN) Tirana: Violence flared in the Albanian capital on Monday, the seventh straight day of anti-government protests, even as Prime Minister Edi Rama repeated his offer of unconditional talks with demonstrators, according to local media.
Crowds massed outside the Education Ministry, again demanding that Rama and his government step down. Clashes with riot police later broke out near the Court of Appeal, where protesters hurled stones and pyrotechnics and smashed windows.
Authorities said five people have been arrested and 15 more are being sought.
Police fired tear gas and water cannons to push protesters back near Rinia Park. Later, demonstrators targeted officers near the Interior Ministry with stones, pyrotechnics and Molotov cocktails.
Student demonstrations also continued in Lezhe, Vlore, Elbasan and Shkoder, where some students boycotted classes and marched through the streets.
Rama said the government was ready to meet protesters “anytime, anywhere, without conditions.” He urged organizers to distance themselves from violence, including stone-throwing and arson, and not to draw minors into confrontations. Peaceful protest is a right, he said, while violence is a crime, and he called for the protection of people’s lives and dignity.
His offer came after civil society and media organizations appealed for an end to the violence, restraint from political leaders and respect for the right to peaceful protest. The groups also urged authorities to facilitate demonstrations and ensure that any police use of force is lawful, necessary and proportionate.
The unrest began Oct. 13, initially fueled by student anger over education costs, university conditions and economic prospects. Demonstrators have since broadened their grievances to include corruption and the cost of living.
Rama has rejected calls to resign and said he will not negotiate with those involved in violence.
Crowds massed outside the Education Ministry, again demanding that Rama and his government step down. Clashes with riot police later broke out near the Court of Appeal, where protesters hurled stones and pyrotechnics and smashed windows.
Authorities said five people have been arrested and 15 more are being sought.
Police fired tear gas and water cannons to push protesters back near Rinia Park. Later, demonstrators targeted officers near the Interior Ministry with stones, pyrotechnics and Molotov cocktails.
Student demonstrations also continued in Lezhe, Vlore, Elbasan and Shkoder, where some students boycotted classes and marched through the streets.
Rama said the government was ready to meet protesters “anytime, anywhere, without conditions.” He urged organizers to distance themselves from violence, including stone-throwing and arson, and not to draw minors into confrontations. Peaceful protest is a right, he said, while violence is a crime, and he called for the protection of people’s lives and dignity.
His offer came after civil society and media organizations appealed for an end to the violence, restraint from political leaders and respect for the right to peaceful protest. The groups also urged authorities to facilitate demonstrations and ensure that any police use of force is lawful, necessary and proportionate.
The unrest began Oct. 13, initially fueled by student anger over education costs, university conditions and economic prospects. Demonstrators have since broadened their grievances to include corruption and the cost of living.
Rama has rejected calls to resign and said he will not negotiate with those involved in violence.
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