Protests Escalate with Calls for PM's Resignation, Court Rules Arrests Illegal
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Anti-government protests have intensified across the country, with one prominent headline suggesting a call for the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama. This marks a significant escalation in the ongoing demonstrations, which have been active for over 100 days. Further complicating the situation for authorities, a court has ruled that the arrests of 14 protesters near the Prime Ministry were illegal.
Meanwhile, the Special Prosecution Office Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) continues its investigation into former Deputy Prime Minister and former Minister of Infrastructure and Energy Belinda Balluku, uncovering a second alleged villa. Environmental activists are also pushing for legislative changes, urging Parliament to repeal modifications to the law on protected natural areas. Additionally, concerns over digital censorship have arisen after Meta platforms closed several media pages and activist accounts, though Meta later admitted to some mistaken closures.
In other domestic news, the ongoing wildfire season has exposed systemic weaknesses within the state, as thousands of hectares continue to burn. Separately, a court in Vlora has officially declared Elvis Troqa missing, eight years after his disappearance.