A large opposition protest in Tirana ended with multiple injuries and hospitalizations, as opposition figures and supporters accused police of using excessive and unjustified force against demonstrators.
The protest, led by Sali Berisha, lasted nearly three hours and escalated shortly after his speech in front of the Prime Minister’s office.
MPs And Activists Hospitalized After Police Intervention
According to opposition representatives and witnesses on the ground, police used tear gas, water cannons and pepper spray directly against protesters gathered near the Prime Minister’s building.
Several opposition figures were taken to hospital, including MPs Luçiano Boçi and Klevis Balliu, along with activist Aulon Kalaja, all reportedly suffering from the effects of gas exposure and physical force.
Flamur Noka was also seen with visible injuries following contact with police forces.
March Toward Parliament Blocked
After being pushed away from the Prime Minister’s office, protesters attempted to move toward Parliament but were stopped by police near the Namazgjah Mosque.
Witnesses say officers again used force to disperse the crowd, preventing any further movement toward government buildings.
Opposition Accuses Government Of Repression
Sali Berisha later condemned the police response, describing it as a violent crackdown on peaceful demonstrators and warning that protests would continue.
He also challenged Prime Minister Edi Rama to face him either in court or in a televised debate, escalating the political confrontation further.