Political turmoil in Albania reached a boiling point as opposition lawmakers forcefully disrupted a parliamentary session in the capital, Tirana. Led by Democratic Party chief Sali Berisha, opposition members stormed the assembly hall, setting off flares and smoke bombs to obstruct a scheduled vote on central bank legislation.

Taking the floor amid chaotic scenes, Berisha hurled severe insults at members of the ruling regime, allegedly labeling them as criminals who deserved harsh retribution rather than the protesting youth. Lawmakers surrounded Berisha while brandishing photographs of demonstrators allegedly injured by rubber bullets during ongoing anti-government rallies that have persisted for months.

The widespread demonstrations were initially ignited in May by Prime Minister Rama’s preliminary approval of a luxury resort project linked to Jared Kushner, son-in-law of U.S. figure Donald Trump. What began as a student-led initiative has since metastasized into a massive popular movement fueled by deep economic stagnation, alleged widespread corruption, and profound dissatisfaction with educational standards. Rama, who has maintained power for over a decade, has steadfastly refused to step down despite severe public backlash.

In response to the unrest, the Albanian regime has implemented stringent penalties, introducing fines exceeding $6,000 for anyone attending a volatile protest—an amount equivalent to six times the national average monthly salary. Although authorities have attempted to appease the public through modest concessions, such as increased student stipends and subsidized housing, the deep-seated societal friction and violent clashes show no signs of abating.

Source: www.aljazeera.com