In an unexpected turn of events, Greek-Albanian MP Fredi Beleri faced a hostile reception outside the Albanian Parliament building, where he was pelted with eggs and yogurt by a protester. The attack occurred following Beleri’s participation in the 18th meeting of the EU-Albania Stabilization Association Committee, held in Tirana, a gathering marked by heightened political tensions.
Eyewitness accounts report that as Beleri exited the building, a protester, expressing accusations of corruption and voter manipulation against Beleri, launched the improvised attack. The protester alleged that Beleri had escaped prison due to procedural delays, accusing him of “killing many people” and benefiting from European support despite a controversial political reputation. “He escaped prison through procedures, but he should be in jail. This man has committed murders, yet he comes here with the Europeans to impose himself on us,” the protester shouted, accusing Beleri of vote manipulation.
This incident comes on the heels of an official visit from ten Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) to Albania. After meeting with EU Ambassador Silvio Gonzato and receiving updates on Albania’s current political climate, the MEPs held discussions with parliamentary groups in an effort to better understand the local political landscape. Further talks with the Speaker of the Parliament, Elisa Spiropali, were scheduled later in the day.
The attack on Beleri, however, has sparked concerns and criticisms. Gazment Bardhi, head of the Democratic Party’s Parliamentary Group, condemned the assault, pointing a finger at Prime Minister Edi Rama. Bardhi alleged that Rama orchestrated the attack to undermine the dignity of the Albanian state and strain its relationship with EU representatives. “The physical assault outside Parliament, orchestrated by Edi Rama, is a disgraceful act that tarnishes Albania’s image. Closing the doors at the entrance and resorting to a physical attack on the way out, they broke the sacred code of hospitality and interethnic harmony,” Bardhi stated. He urged law enforcement to investigate the incident and take swift action.
Despite the public nature of the attack, police presence was minimal, and no immediate detainment of the attacker took place. This apparent lack of police intervention has raised questions about the response protocols, especially given the physical nature of the attack on an MP. The absence of immediate action has fueled speculation of an organized attempt to discredit Beleri, particularly given the tense relations between the ruling party and opposition groups, with accusations of political repression circulating widely.
The Democratic Party continues to call for government accountability, condemning the attacks on Beleri and demanding a thorough investigation into what they claim to be an organized operation intended to intimidate political opposition. With pressure mounting, all eyes are on Albania’s law enforcement agencies and government response, as the international community watches closely.