Protests against the government of Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama continued in the capital, Tirana, for a sixth consecutive day on Sunday, as the premier ruled out resigning despite mounting pressure from demonstrators.
Hundreds of protesters gathered outside the Education Ministry around midday, chanting “Rama, resign” in a tense confrontation with police, who later used water cannons and tear gas to disperse the crowds.
The demonstrations have drawn thousands of people demanding better university conditions, lower tuition fees and action against corruption.
The unrest has also raised concerns over public safety, with businesses and institutions in central Tirana securing their doors and windows with metal shutters. City workers removed paving stones to prevent them from being used as projectiles.
In a video address lasting more than an hour, Rama dismissed calls for his resignation and described the protests as the work of an “outside hand”.
Saturday clashes leave dozens injured
The most serious violence took place on Saturday, when protesters threw rocks, Molotov cocktails, metal objects and pyrotechnic devices at police.
Cars and rubbish bins were set alight and used as barricades, while several buildings, including a court, banks and a post office, were set on fire or badly damaged.
Police fired rubber bullets at demonstrators for the first time since the protests began, according to AFP journalists at the scene.
Ambulances transported injured people as the confrontation continued into the night.
Albania’s Health Ministry said on Sunday morning that 65 people had been injured in the latest clashes, including 37 police officers, with 12 people hospitalised.
Since Tuesday, a total of 272 people have been injured, including 169 police officers, the ministry said.
Protesters cite corruption and rule of law
The demonstrations reflect wider frustration over governance, public services and economic pressures.
The unrest follows months of anti-government demonstrations in Albania, a Balkan country and close US ally. Earlier protests were initially sparked by controversy surrounding a resort development linked to US President Donald Trump’s family.
US embassy urges restraint
The US Embassy in Tirana called for “restraint and calm on all sides” late Saturday, as the clashes intensified.
Rama’s refusal to step down leaves the political standoff unresolved, with protesters continuing to demand his resignation and authorities facing pressure to restore order while addressing public grievances.
