Tensions in Albania escalated as riot police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse hundreds of opposition protesters in the capital, Tirana. The protesters are demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama, who in turn accuses them of trying to seize power through violence.
Protests in Albania, fueled by accusations of government corruption, have become a regular occurrence.
Opposition leaders, including former Prime Minister Sali Berisha and ex-President Ilir Meta, are at the forefront.
Berisha, a former prime minister, is currently under house arrest for alleged corruption during his time in the office, while Meta, Albania’s former president, was arrested in late October on similar charges. Both deny the allegations, accusing Rama of politically motivated charges.
The activists are also calling for the creation of a technocratic caretaker government ahead of the 2025 elections.
Rama, who has been in power since 2013, dismisses the opposition's claims, saying the corruption charges are legitimate and accusing the opposition of attempting to seize power through violence. He intends to seek a fourth term in office in the upcoming election next year.
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