Clashes erupt at Tirana protest

Clashes erupted in central Tirana during an opposition rally after protesters hurled petrol bombs, fireworks and other projectiles toward the prime minister’s office, prompting police to deploy tear gas and water cannons. The demonstration, led by Democratic Party figure Sali Berisha, brought thousands chanting “Rama, go away” and “Rama in jail,” and called for the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama’s government amid corruption allegations involving his deputy, Belinda Balluku.

Balluku was indicted by a special prosecution unit on charges of interfering in public tenders for major infrastructure projects and allegedly favoring certain companies, allegations she denies. An anti‑corruption court has suspended her from office, and the Special Prosecution Office has requested that parliament lift her immunity to permit arrest. Rama’s Socialist Party, holding a strong parliamentary majority after winning a fourth consecutive term, has not indicated when or whether it will move to strip Balluku of immunity.

During the unrest, authorities reported injuries to some officers and damage to property near government buildings; emergency services treated minor wounds among protesters and police. Government spokespeople condemned the violence and warned that those responsible would face legal consequences, while opposition leaders said the majority of demonstrators intended to protest peacefully and blamed the government for failing to address long‑standing grievances.

The episode has intensified political tensions that have been escalating since December, with broader debates over judicial overreach raised by Rama in response to pre‑trial detentions and prosecutions. Observers say the clashes underline deep divisions within Albanian politics and raise concerns about stability as the country pursues European Union accession ambitions, which Brussels has linked to stronger action against corruption and judicial reform.

Human rights groups urged restraint from both protesters and security forces and called for investigations into the violence and any excessive use of force. Footage from the scenes is being reviewed to identify those involved in violent acts, and authorities reinforced security around key government institutions in the aftermath. The confrontation marks a significant flare‑up in Tirana’s recent political disputes and is likely to fuel further debate over accountability, parliamentary immunity and the rule of law.