More than 300 protesters and police officers were injured during the latest anti-government rally in Tirana, where clashes broke out as thousands gathered in Albania’s capital.
Police used tear gas, water cannon and rubber bullets to disperse crowds after several government buildings were attacked. Dozens of demonstrators were arrested, authorities said.
The demonstration was organised amid anger over poor conditions in schools and the rising cost of living. Students, university professors, artists and opposition parties were among those who supported or attended the rally.
The Ministry of Education has become a focus of the protests. On Saturday, some demonstrators threw stones at the building and pushed burning bins towards it.
Security was increased across Tirana, with checks reportedly carried out on vehicles travelling into the city. The unrest followed several days in which protests had appeared to ease.
Protesters call for Edi Rama to resign
Public anger has widened into demands for action against corruption and for the resignation of Socialist Prime Minister Edi Rama. Albania has experienced intermittent anti-government demonstrations since May, after reports emerged of a luxury hotel project linked to the family of United States President Donald Trump.
Mr Rama has blamed “foreign actors” for the violence and accused Russia and Iran of driving online misinformation. He has also called for dialogue.
Red cushions were placed outside the government headquarters on Saturday as a symbolic invitation to talks, but protesters later set them alight.
Some demonstrators criticised the wider political establishment, including Mr Rama’s centre-right opponent Sali Berisha, reflecting anger directed at both sides of the country’s political divide.
