Protests turn violent in Albania as crowds rage over government corruption

Smoke drifted across central Tirana on Tuesday night as angry protesters clashed with riot police, hurled petrol bombs at government buildings and demanded the resignation of Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku over corruption allegations.

Thousands flooded the streets near Prime Minister Edi Rama’s office, waving flags, chanting "Rama go home" and accusing the government of shielding powerful figures from justice. Police fired water cannons and tear gas to push crowds back, sealing off large parts of the capital. Several people were reported injured as violence spread.

By late evening, broken glass, burned debris and abandoned banners littered the main square in the political crisis that now threatens Prime Minister Edi Rama, who has been in power since 2013 and has positioned himself as a key figure in Albania’s push towards European Union membership.

CORRUPTION CASE SPARKS UNREST

The latest wave of demonstrations follows the indictment of Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku by a special anti-corruption prosecution unit in December.

Prosecutors allege that Balluku interfered in public tenders for major infrastructure projects and favoured selected companies in return for political or financial benefits. She has denied all wrongdoing and said the accusations are politically motivated.

The Special Prosecution Office, which focuses on organised crime and corruption, has asked parliament to lift Balluku’s parliamentary immunity to allow her arrest and questioning. However, it remains unclear when lawmakers will vote on the request. Rama’s Socialist Party holds a majority in parliament, raising doubts over whether the motion will be approved.

OPPOSITION ACCUSES GOVERNMENT OF SYSTEMIC GRAFT

While Balluku’s case triggered the protests, demonstrators say their anger runs far deeper. Many accuse the government of widespread corruption, misuse of public funds, and shielding senior officials from accountability.

Opposition leaders argue that Rama has repeatedly defended close allies facing legal scrutiny, weakening public trust.

Protesters also claim that alleged corruption has contributed to high unemployment, rising living costs, and emigration, with thousands of Albanians leaving the country in search of better opportunities abroad.

BERISHA RALLIES PROTESTERS TO KEEP PRESSURE ON

Speaking to thousands outside the Prime Minister’s Office, opposition leader Sali Berisha accused Rama of "declaring war on justice" to protect his inner circle.

He claimed the government had attempted to manipulate courts and prosecutors to shield Balluku from prosecution.

"We were close to a coup within the state," Berisha told the crowd. "The people stopped it."

He described Rama as "the most dangerous enemy of Albanians" and urged supporters not to abandon the streets until "corruption is defeated". His speech was met with loud chants and whistles, as protesters vowed to continue nightly demonstrations.

Riot police in helmets and shields formed lines around government buildings as protesters tried to break through barricades. Bottles, stones and firecrackers were thrown from the crowd. Authorities have not released official figures on injuries or arrests, but hospitals confirmed treating several people for breathing problems and minor wounds.

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With inputs from agencies