Protests in Albania are calling for the resignation of Tirana’s mayor, Erion Veliaj, over alleged corruption within the municipality. The demonstrations are part of a broader movement organized by opposition parties and civil society groups.
Growing unrest amid corruption allegations
The protests, which began after the arrest of several former municipal officials, have gained traction since March. The Democratic Party (PD) and the Freedom Party (PL) accuse Veliaj’s administration of corruption, while protestors demand greater transparency.
Dorjan Teliti, Deputy Chairman of the Tirana Municipal Council, urged continued democratic action. “Our resistance has become a topic of discussion everywhere,” Teliti said.
Klevis Balliu, an opposition official, called on citizens to take responsibility for solving local issues.
Police presence maintains order
Police monitored the protest as demonstrators threw objects at the municipality building. No major clashes were reported.
The unrest in Albania follows the arrest of former municipal officials in March, accused of corruption and false asset declarations. These protests have expanded into calls for broader political accountability.