Parliament surrounded as protesters clash with police
Widespread protests engulfed the Albanian Parliament today, with demonstrators breaching security barriers and clashing with police. The demonstrations, now in their 54th day, saw protesters remove a metal fence and throw eggs and tomatoes, leading to a significant police response including water cannons and tear gas. Several police officers were reported injured.
Tensions ran high as MPs were in session inside the Parliament building, with opposition figures like Sali Berisha calling for its dissolution. Accusations of foreign influence, with claims of organization by individuals linked to Iran, added another layer of complexity to the volatile situation. Meanwhile, reports emerged of online manipulation through fake profiles targeting protest supporters.
Beyond the immediate clashes, the day's news also touched upon environmental concerns, with the Bern Convention criticizing the government for a lack of information regarding the Vjosa-Narta area. Separately, a police investigation into a sexual abuse case involving a minor was also reported.