OMM Newsroom
Anti-government protests in Albania continued for a seventh consecutive day on Monday, amid clashes between demonstrators and police in the capital, Tirana. Prime Minister Edi Rama renewed his offer of unconditional dialogue, Anadolu Agency reported, citing local media.
Protesters gathered outside the Education Ministry and repeated calls for Rama and his government to resign.
Clashes with riot police later broke out near the Court of Appeal, where demonstrators threw stones and pyrotechnics, shattering windows. Authorities said five people had been arrested and another 15 were being sought.
Police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse protesters near Rinia Park. Later, demonstrators threw stones, pyrotechnics and Molotov cocktails at police near the Interior Ministry.
Student protests also continued in Lezhe, Vlore, Elbasan and Shkoder. Some students boycotted classes and marched through the streets.
Rama said the government was ready to meet protesters “anytime, anywhere, without conditions.” He called on protest organizers to distance themselves from violence, including stone-throwing and arson, and urged them not to involve minors in clashes.
He said peaceful protest was a right while violence was a crime, and called for the protection of people’s lives and dignity.
Rama’s offer followed an appeal by civil society and media organizations calling for an end to violence, restraint by 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 was lawful, necessary and proportionate.
The latest protests began on Oct. 13, initially driven by student concerns over education costs, university conditions and economic prospects. Demonstrators have also raised broader grievances over corruption and the cost of living.
Rama has rejected calls for his resignation and said he would not negotiate with those involved in violence.
