Molotov cocktail thrown at Albanian PM’s office during protest
A Molotov cocktail was thrown at Albania’s Prime Ministry building on Tuesday as thousands of opposition supporters gathered in the capital to protest alleged government corruption, leading to clashes with police and several injuries.
The demonstration, organized by the main opposition Democratic Party (PD), drew large crowds to the boulevard in front of the Prime Ministry. Protesters called for the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama, accusing his government of widespread corruption.
During the protest, some demonstrators hurled Molotov cocktails, fireworks, smoke bombs and other objects at the government building. Police responded with tear gas and water cannons in an effort to disperse the crowd.
According to AA, clashes also broke out near the parliament building, where protesters confronted security forces. Several people were injured during the hours-long unrest, largely due to the effects of tear gas and scuffles between demonstrators and police.
In addition to demanding Rama’s resignation, protesters called for Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure and Energy Belinda Balluku to step down. Balluku was suspended on Nov. 19 amid corruption allegations but was later reinstated.
Authorities deployed hundreds of police officers across central Tirana, and several roads were closed to traffic as tensions escalated.
Anti-government demonstrations have taken place in Albania in recent months, with opposition parties pledging to continue their protests against the ruling administration.
