Protests in Albania's capital Tirana have entered their third day, with clashes between police and demonstrators demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama over corruption allegations.
What happened
Rioters threw rocks at a police cordon outside the Education Ministry, prompting law enforcement to respond with tear gas and water cannons. The protests followed riots on Wednesday that left 89 people injured, including 61 police officers.
Prime Minister Edi Rama has vowed not to resign, stating that governments are changed through democratic elections, not revolutions. He added that his responsibility is to listen to legitimate concerns and keep Albania moving forward.
The protests include student groups seeking education reforms, as well as a broader anti-government movement opposed to a development project linked to Jared Kushner. The so-called flamingo movement is calling for Rama's resignation over allegations of widespread corruption.
An EU delegation in Albania has called for a proportionate response from authorities, expressing concern at the violent escalation of the protests. Rama has said that he is ready to discuss the cost of education, but condemned the destruction of public property and threats to public safety.
