Albanian protests over Sazani island demand PM Rama's resignation

Mass demonstrations have erupted across Tirana, with thousands of citizens gathering daily for more than two weeks to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama. Protesters cite plans to develop the protected Zvërnec area and the strategically important Sazani island, accusing the government of favouring strategic investors and ignoring environmental safeguards.

Rama repeatedly asserted that the Sazani island “is not for sale nor for rent” and remains state property, emphasizing that his administration introduced the first law on protected zones, expanding protected land to 25 % of Albania’s territory and cancelling numerous hydro‑electric licences to preserve the Vjosë River.

The Council of Albanian Ambassadors (KASH) publicly backed the protests, warning that perceived corruption and lack of accountability erode public trust. Within the ruling Socialist Party, most members have remained silent, with a single deputy acknowledging the protesters’ concerns. The protests have also drawn attention from the European Commission, which is monitoring the environmental impact assessments.

The sustained pressure reflects broader discontent over perceived mismanagement of natural resources and the government’s handling of strategic investments, raising questions about political stability ahead of upcoming parliamentary cycles.