Rama refuses to resign as student-led protests turn violent in Tirana

Tirana, Albania. Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama refused demands for his resignation on Thursday as thousands joined student-led demonstrations in the capital. Protesters broke windows and engaged in running clashes with riot police, who deployed tear gas and water cannon.

Third day of demonstrations

The protests entered their third day, presenting Rama with his greatest challenge so far after he secured a fourth term last year. His election campaign had focused on Albania joining the European Union.

Parliament called off its session when violence broke out again close to the building. Across Tirana, rubbish bins had been burned out, bus stops shattered and traffic lights broken.

Education, jobs and coastal development

Demonstrators expressed anger over perceived corruption, education costs and standards, and an agreement to sell sections of Albania’s unspoilt southern coast for a luxury resort project supported by Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of US President Donald Trump.

Those demanding Rama step down said their concerns had gone unheard throughout a summer of mostly peaceful demonstrations against the development.

A student identifying herself as Kiara cited living costs, limited employment opportunities and alleged corruption as the principal grievances. She accused Rama of embodying corruption and said finding work relevant to one’s qualifications depended on personal connections. Like many people demonstrating on Thursday, she wore a mask over her face.

Prime minister defends mandate

Responding in writing to Reuters, Rama ruled out resigning. He said his duty was to hear concerns, address those that were legitimate and ensure Albania continued to advance. Quitting, he argued, would betray voters who had given him a strong mandate to finish EU membership negotiations.

Rama, whose administration rejects allegations of corruption, said he was willing to discuss increasing education costs. However, he argued that assaults on institutions, damage to public property and threats to public safety were unrelated to students’ legitimate demands.