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Albanian police fire rubber bullets as student protests rage
Reuters • • world
Key Points:
- Albanian police fired rubber bullets at student protesters for the first time during the fifth day of demonstrations demanding Prime Minister Edi Rama's resignation, marking an escalation in clashes outside the education ministry.
- The protests, fueled by grievances over government corruption, unemployment, and poor education, have involved burning government buildings, throwing rocks, and police responding with tear gas and water cannons.
- Police Chief Skender Hita confirmed limited use of rubber bullets and announced the suspension of seven officers for excessive force, while over 1,000 people have been arrested amid the unrest.
- The demonstrations also reflect broader dissatisfaction linked to a controversial luxury coastal development backed by Jared Kushner, which sparked earlier protests over land disputes and corruption allegations.
- Prime Minister Rama condemned the violence but refused to resign, emphasizing his commitment to EU accession by 2030 and the need to maintain order during the crisis.
