Albanian opposition leader Sali Berisha announced today that a large protest will take place outside parliament as the government prepares to debate the 2025 budget. Berisha, head of the Democratic Party, emphasized that the protest will involve a wide range of participants, including citizens, pensioners, farmers, the unemployed, and small business owners.
During a press conference on Monday, Berisha stated that the protest was in response to what he described as the “largest plunder of the year.” He explained that although his party would present amendments to the budget in the parliamentary committees and plenary sessions, he was certain that the government would reject them. Nonetheless, he stressed that presenting the amendments was a necessary step to advocate for the Albanian people.
“We have an obligation to present our proposals to the parliament,” Berisha said. “And we will continue to fight for the people’s rights, regardless of whether the government accepts our amendments.”
Berisha also announced that civil disobedience would be a key tactic in the opposition’s efforts to restore free voting rights for Albanian citizens. He linked the movement to the need for a technical government that would ensure fair elections.
Regarding wages, Berisha promised his party would push for urgent reforms, including a 500-euro minimum wage for workers and a vital minimum of 200 euros for all Albanians. He strongly criticized the government’s approach to high salaries, particularly at institutions like the Special Anti-Corruption Structure (SPAK).
The protest announcement comes at a time of rising discontent over economic conditions and concerns about corruption in Albania. As the 2025 budget looms, Berisha’s call for a major mobilization signals that the opposition is preparing for a long fight over the country’s future.
