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Albanian Democratic Party protest involvement

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2026-10-20 12:04 UTC → 2026-10-22 17:17 UTC · added ~~removed~~

In late September 2026, political analysts criticized the Democratic Party of Albania (PD) for failing to effectively lead civic protests. Analyst Arbër Hitaj described Sali Berisha’s initial refusal to support the movement as a ‘tactical error,’ claiming the party lost a ‘golden moment’ by initially accusing protesters of being agents of the Socialist Party. By mid-October, following four days of protests in Tirana and condemnation from the U.S. Embassy, the PD sought to distance itself from protest violence. The party addressed the detention of official Ilirjana Kuçana, clarifying she was present as a pedagogue to protect students rather than as a party representative. The PD denounced her eight-hour detention and alleged she was subjected to physical violence, verbal insults, and intimidation by police, characterizing these actions as attempts to frame student protests as organized by the party. On October 17, protests in Tirana escalated into significant unrest involving attacks on key institutions, including the Vatican's diplomatic mission and the Supreme Court building. Attacks on the Socialist Party headquarters were also reported. Legal experts described the attacks on judicial buildings as a challenge to constitutional order, labeling certain organizing groups as “barbaric.” By October 18, the unrest sparked intense debate regarding police conduct. Critics and journalists raised concerns over the use of disproportionate force, including reports of violence against minors and a lack of medical assistance for the injured. While critics argue the government’s refusal to engage in dialogue has increased public indignation, defenders of the state maintain that police are acting to protect institutions and public order against escalating protest tactics. By October 21, demonstrations entered their tenth day as student protesters were joined by university workers. Clashes continued, with reports of police using tear gas, water cannons, and rubber bullets, leading to further arrests and hospitalizations.

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