Albanian protest outside parliament erupts with police violence

Activist Migen Qiraxhi described the demonstration as “a large river that gathers branches,” saying participants have united to reach their objective and that diversity will emerge afterward. He noted that former PM Sali Berisha is not part of the protest, though he would like to be, and criticized the Socialist Party for being centred on its leader and for panic among its ranks.

Co‑organiser Luçiana Kokaj reported that police used a spray gun without warning and a rubber baton against demonstrators outside the parliament, denied first‑aid assistance, and caused injuries that required medical treatment. She said two activists, Arbër Lleshi and Arbion Nikolli, were arrested and beaten, and she called for an investigation by the Anti‑Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (AMP). The protest was accompanied by the slogan “political death.”