Violent Anti-Government Protests in Tirana as Molotov Cocktails Target Prime Minister’s Office

TIRANA, ALBANIA — Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets of Albania’s capital on Tuesday to protest against the government amid escalating corruption allegations, with clashes erupting near key government buildings and the Prime Minister’s Office. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Protesters hurled Molotov cocktails, fireworks and other objects at the office of Prime Minister Edi Rama, demanding his resignation as well as action over alleged corruption involving senior government figures. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Riot police responded with tear gas and water cannons to try to disperse crowds, as tensions spilled over into violence in central Tirana. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Background to the Protests

The rallies were organized by the opposition Democratic Party, led by former prime minister Sali Berisha, who has accused Rama’s government of systemic corruption and called for early elections. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

A key focus of public anger has been Deputy Prime Minister and Energy & Infrastructure Minister Belinda Balluku, who faces corruption allegations linked to public procurement. Protesters have demanded that her parliamentary immunity be lifted so she can face prosecution. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Clashes and Casualties

• Police deployed water cannons and tear gas after demonstrators threw Molotov cocktails and flares near the government buildings. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
• At least 16 people were reported injured and 13 were arrested during the unrest, according to authorities. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
• More than 1,300 police officers were mobilized to secure the protest areas. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

Protesters also clashed with law enforcement near the Albanian parliament building after the demonstration’s intensity increased later in the evening. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

Political and Regional Context

This protest marks the third major anti-government rally in recent months, as public discontent over corruption and governance issues grows. Analysts note that deep distrust of both the ruling party and opposition figures has left Albania’s political environment highly polarized. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

Albania continues to pursue European Union accession, aiming for membership by 2027, but ongoing political unrest and corruption concerns may complicate its prospects. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}