Albanian Power Struggle Ignites: Opposition Leaders Face Legal Heat
The streets of Tirana erupted in chaos as the Albanian power struggle reached a boiling point. Opposition supporters clashed violently with police, hurling Molotov cocktails and setting the night ablaze with fireworks. In the aftermath, authorities have set their sights on three top Democratic Party officials, accusing them of fanning the flames of unrest.
Flamur Noka, Gazmend Bardhi, and Ervin Minarolli now face the Tirana Police Directorate’s attention.
The charge? “Organization of and participation in illegal gatherings and demonstrations” – a move that has only intensified the ongoing Albanian power struggle.
From Parliament to Prison: The Spark That Lit the Fuse
The powder keg of discontent exploded after Democratic Party MP Ervin Salianji was sentenced to 12 months in prison. Salianji’s supporters cried foul, claiming he’d fallen victim to a political vendetta.
This controversial ruling has become the rallying cry for opposition forces demanding a technocratic caretaker government ahead of the 2025 elections.
As the Albanian power struggle rages on, the casualties mount:
- Ten police officers were injured, with three still hospitalized
- Police arrested a 57-year-old protester for assaulting officers and committing arson.
- Two civilians, a father and daughter, were caught in the crossfire.
The opposition’s anger isn’t just on the streets. Last week, opposition MPs transformed parliament into a battleground, breaking chairs and reportedly throwing debris at the speaker and cabinet ministers. This escalation has prompted authorities to refer 25 MPs to the Special Prosecution Against Corruption and Organized Crime.
Prime Minister Edi Rama finds himself at the centre of this political maelstrom, accused by opponents of sliding towards authoritarianism. As Tirana smoulders and tensions rise, one thing is clear: the Albanian power struggle is far from over, and the world watches with bated breath to see what happens next.
