Albania’s parliament descended into chaos on Thursday after opposition lawmakers set off smoke flares, blocked the main podium and clashed with fellow legislators during a parliamentary session in the capital, Tirana.
The disruption, which filled parts of the chamber with coloured smoke, occurred as lawmakers debated legislation concerning the country’s central bank, bringing normal parliamentary proceedings into disarray.
According to Reuters and Al Jazeera, members of the opposition Democratic Party of Albania lit blue flares and blocked access to the podium in protest against the government’s handling of anti-government demonstrations.
Opposition lawmakers also displayed photographs of protesters they alleged had been injured by rubber bullets during clashes with security forces. Some lawmakers blew whistles and accused the ruling Socialist Party of using excessive force against demonstrators.
Opposition leader Sali Berisha condemned the government’s response to the protests, accusing ruling-party lawmakers of failing to protect young people. His microphone was reportedly switched off during his address.
The incident came amid growing student-led demonstrations demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama, who has been in office since 2013 and secured a fourth term last year.
The protests, which have spread beyond Tirana, have been fuelled by public anger over alleged government corruption, high education costs, poor educational standards, unemployment and the rising cost of living.
The demonstrations have also been linked to earlier opposition to a luxury coastal development associated with Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of United States President Donald Trump.
Some recent protests have turned violent, with demonstrators attacking public buildings and banks, damaging businesses and clashing with police. Authorities and protesters have reported injuries during the unrest.
According to Africanews and Euronews, four opposition lawmakers were expelled from the parliamentary chamber following Thursday’s disruption, while the governing Socialist Party continued with the vote on central bank legislation.
In response to the unrest, Rama has called for dialogue with students and announced measures aimed at easing economic pressures, including additional support for low-income families and students.
His government has also introduced tougher penalties for people attending demonstrations that turn violent, a move that has raised further concerns amid the escalating political tensions.
Despite mounting pressure from protesters and opposition politicians, Rama has rejected calls to resign.
The latest parliamentary confrontation underscores the growing political tensions in Albania as the government faces increasing pressure over corruption allegations, economic hardship and its handling of public demonstrations.
Sources: Reuters, Al Jazeera, Africanews and Euronews.
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