Opposition rejects President's invitation to discuss election dates
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Political life continues to play out in two different rooms. In the presidency, Bajram Begaj has begun consultations on the 2027 local election dates, though the opposition has refused to attend what it calls a mere formality. Outside, the Prime Minister has again placed a 'stone table' in front of his office as a symbolic invitation to protesters. The invitation has been declined; the table remains empty.
Inside parliament, the majority passed a new bank law and granted immunity to several officials while opposition members set off smoke flares in the chamber. The atmosphere outside was less metaphorical, as police faced accusations of firing rubber bullets at journalists and protesters. A separate demonstration over the murder of a woman by her brother-in-law also ended in clashes with officers.
The transfer of Tirana Mayor Erion Veliaj to Fier prison has sparked a heated debate between political parties, with some opposition figures describing the move as an abduction. In Elbasan, a large fire has covered the surrounding area in thick smoke, while in Marikaj, police discovered that house arrest is not always the deterrent it is intended to be.