Albanian protests enter third day over Kushner-linked resort and Rama government
Student-led demonstrations in Tirana entered a third day, with clashes between protesters and police amid calls for Prime Minister Edi Rama to resign. The movement combines demands for education reforms with wider anger over alleged corruption and a luxury tourism project linked to an investment firm founded by Jared Kushner, according to the Associated Press.
Bottom line — Rama says he will stay in office; Albania’s next parliamentary election is not due until 2029.
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The Associated Press reports that police used tear gas and water cannons and detained several demonstrators.
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The Albanian Health Ministry reported 89 people injured in Wednesday’s riots, including 61 police officers.
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Student groups are seeking education reforms; Firstpost reports concerns include university conditions, rising costs, financial support and job prospects.
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The project is planned for Albania’s southern coast, on an island with a nature reserve where flamingos live, according to the Associated Press.
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The Democratic Party backed the protests and called for a caretaker government and early elections, the Associated Press reports.
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An EU delegation in Albania called for a proportionate response from authorities after expressing concern about the violence, according to the Associated Press.