Tensions escalated in Tirana, Albania, after supporters of the opposition party staged a large protest in front of the government and parliamentary buildings. The situation turned violent when Molotov cocktails were thrown, prompting police to use high-pressure water cannons to disperse the crowd. Three officers were injured, and many protesters were arrested.
On Saturday, 24 January, thousands of protesters led by Albania's opposition Democratic Party gathered in the streets, holding signs harshly criticizing the government, including slogans such as "Albania is a one-party state" and "Where did the European Union funds go?"
The protesters' main demand was the immediate resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama, citing evidence of corruption within several cabinet members and allegations of rigging the parliamentary election results held on 11 May.
The government deployed over 1,350 police officers and installed dense metal barricades around the prime minister's office to prevent unrest. However, the situation worsened when protesters began throwing Molotov cocktails at police lines and the parliamentary building, causing explosions and localized fires.
In response, police used high-pressure water cannon vehicles to disperse the crowd and prevent further escalation.
According to Albanian authorities, at least three police officers were injured in the clashes, while dozens of protesters were detained for legal proceedings.
Meanwhile, Albania's political atmosphere remains tense, with the opposition vowing to continue protests until their demands are met.