Albanian opposition blocks streets in protest against government corruption

In Tirana, Albania, on November 26, 2024, opposition lawmakers and their supporters organized a major protest against the government led by Prime Minister Edi Rama. The protesters accused the Socialist Party of corruption, election manipulation, and undermining judicial independence. The rally disrupted traffic as hundreds of activists gathered at key intersections, leading to clashes with anti-riot police attempting to maintain order. Some protesters engaged in peaceful sit-ins, while others attempted to confront law enforcement. The demonstration was fueled by recent arrests of political figures from the opposition, including Sali Berisha and Ilir Meta, which the Democratic Party claimed were politically motivated and part of a larger effort by the Ram administration to suppress dissent. Despite a heavy police presence, marked by the use of water cannons and tear gas in some instances, the protest persisted for three hours. It concluded with promises from opposition leaders to expand their demonstrations throughout the country. The backdrop of this unrest reflects an ongoing political crisis as Albania prepares for parliamentary elections in the spring of 2025. Polls suggest that Rama's party holds a favorable position, partly due to the disarray within the opposition. The United States and European Union have encouraged dialogue between the government and opposition, asserting that violence poses a barrier to Albania's European Union aspirations, especially as the nation began discussions to align with EU standards on governance and anti-corruption policies. Albania's ambitions for EU membership by 2030 hinge on the resolution of these pressing issues, underscoring a critical moment for the country's political landscape.