Albanian PM rules out resignation amid protests in Tirana

In an interview with Greek newspaper Kathimerini, Prime Minister of Albania Edi Rama ruled out resigning despite the protests that have taken place in Tirana in recent weeks.

He said that in a democracy, governments are changed through elections rather than violence, while acknowledging that young people’s concerns about education, corruption and the rising cost of living needed tangible solutions, CE Report quotes ATA.

Rama accused a small group of protesters of resorting to violence to apply political pressure, reiterating that the government would remain focused on Albania’s EU accession process.

“Anyone is free to call for my resignation; that is part of democracy. But no one has the right to force it through violence,” he said.

Prime Minister Edi Rama reaffirmed his determination to remain in office despite the violent protests held in Tirana in recent weeks.

He distinguished between students calling for a better future and hooded individuals, some of whom he claimed had links to the “Antifa” movement.

“A minority believe that setting the country on fire is the shortest route to power,” Rama said.

Journalist: How do you respond to protesters’ demands for better education, a stronger fight against corruption and a lower cost of living?

Rama: I have never claimed that everything in Albania is perfect, and I do not expect young people to be satisfied with what we have achieved so far. Their concerns over education, the cost of living and the lack of real opportunities are legitimate and must be addressed with concrete solutions.

The 2027 budget, which we will present shortly, includes additional measures to support families, public services and students. At the same time, I have invited students and professors to engage in open dialogue. I am willing to consider any serious proposal, including those put forward by our fiercest critics.

However, there is a clear distinction between students seeking a better future and groups of hooded individuals, some of whom I have linked to the “Antifa” movement, who throw Molotov cocktails, attack public buildings and damage private property.

The fight against corruption is the responsibility of the justice institutions. It is not the role of those who resort to violence while claiming to represent an entire generation.

Journalist: Do you intend to resign?

Rama: No. In a democracy, governments are changed through elections, not by throwing Molotov cocktails. The Albanian people gave us a clear mandate last year, and I intend to honour it.

Everyone has the right to demand my resignation; that is part of democracy. But no one has the right to force it upon me.

It is my duty to listen to legitimate grievances, protect citizens’ rights and continue working towards Albania’s accession to the European Union. I will not shirk that responsibility simply because a minority believes that setting the country on fire is the quickest route to power.

Photo: Facebook/ediramaal