Albanian PM Edi Rama tackles protests and land‑reform controversy

Prime Minister Edi Rama used social media to publish a ChatGPT‑derived analysis of the “Mountain Package” law, insisting it is not aimed at oligarchs or foreign investors but at families that have inherited land in mountainous regions and lack formal title. He stressed the law’s requirement of ten‑year factual possession excludes most foreign investors.

Rama also claimed that the June protests against the Zvërnec coastal investment were amplified by “brutal foreign interference” and fake news, describing the unrest as a symptom of eroding public trust in institutions. The demonstrations, dubbed the “Flamingos” protests, have continued for over 55 days, with crowds demanding his resignation and chanting slogans such as “Arrest Rama”. During a parliamentary group meeting, Rama presented two documents – the strategic “Besa” plan for his fourth term and an annex on Socialist Party support – and characterized the protests as a societal mirror rather than a mere protest. The meeting turned tense after a clash between Rama and MP Erion Braçe.

Opposition leader Sali Berisha labeled the parliament illegitimate, while Reuters reported police using water cannon and tear‑gas against demonstrators. In a separate note, Kosovo officials praised Rama’s personal support for former KLA leaders facing trial in The Hague.