Breaking News: Albanian opposition lawmakers disrupt parliament with smoke flares in protest over corruption allegations.
Parliament in Albania descended into chaos Thursday as opposition lawmakers unleashed smoke flares and clashed with governing party members during a vote. This escalation follows weeks of student-led protests demanding Prime Minister Edi Rama’s resignation amid claims of widespread corruption.
The disruption unfolded during a vote on a central bank bill when members of the Democratic Party blocked access to the podium and ignited blue flares, filling the chamber with smoke. Opposition leader Sali Berisha delivered a fiery speech before his microphone was cut, accusing Rama’s lawmakers of criminality. “These ruling lawmakers are criminals,” he declared. Protesters claim corruption, underfunding in education and unemployment are driving the unrest.
Weeks of demonstrations began in mid-October when students demanded Rama step down. Protests quickly turned violent, involving clashes with police, arson attacks on government buildings including the Socialist Party headquarters in Tirana, and resulting in injuries. Rama, in turn, has accused foreign actors of manipulating the protests in an attempt to block Albania’s EU aspirations. He blames “organized crime” for inciting unrest. His government has introduced fines up to $6,000 for those involved in violent protests.
These events highlight ongoing political instability in Albania in relation to its European Union ambitions. Rama’s claims of foreign interference add another layer to the crisis.
Another demonstration has been scheduled for Saturday in Tirana, raising the possibility of further unrest.
Sources: Fox News, The Daily Telegraph, Reuters.
