Albania: Opposition Disrupts Bank Vote with Flares

Opposition leader Sali Berisha interrupted a parliamentary session in Tirana on Thursday by entering the chamber with flares and smoke bombs. He called government members criminals while attempting to block a vote on legislation governing Albania's central bank. The vote proceeded despite the disruption.

Berisha, who leads the Democratic Party of Albania, said the ruling lawmakers deserved tear gas and physical injury rather than the young protesters. He held up photos of demonstrators allegedly hit by rubber bullets during the speech. His colleagues gathered around him as smoke filled the room.

The unrest began in May after Prime Minister Edi Rama gave preliminary approval for a luxury resort linked to Jared Kushner, son-in-law of US President Donald Trump. What started as a student-led movement has expanded to include complaints about economic stagnation, corruption, education standards, and high tuition fees. The demonstrations are the largest Albania has seen in decades and have turned violent, with hundreds of people injured, including police officers. Government buildings, banks, and private properties have been set on fire.

Rama has held power for 13 years and won a fourth term last year. He has refused to resign. His administration introduced fines exceeding $6,000 for anyone attending a violent protest, even if they did not participate in the violence. This amount is six times the average monthly salary in Albania, which is approximately $1,000.

According to public broadcaster Radio Televizioni Shqiptar, Rama announced several measures to ease tensions. The monthly scholarship stipend for students from low-income families will increase. Scholarships have been extended to master's degree students. The government also announced subsidized rent for students.