Albania on Wednesday introduced stiff fines for violent demonstrators gathering daily since mid-October in the capital Tirana seeking the prime minister’s resignation.
The Balkan nation has been wracked by months of anti-government protests that in recent days have deteriorated into pitched battles between the security forces and protesters on the streets of Tirana. The leaderless movement started peacefully in May, with rallies against a luxury hotel project in a nature reserve, linked to US President Donald Trump’s family. Police were also given powers to temporarily restrict gatherings in certain areas, including near educational, healthcare and government institutions if there was a risk of violence.
The measures take immediate effect but must be approved by parliament within 45 days to remain in force.
On Wednesday, Prime Minister Edi Rama’s government adopted legislative measures imposing fines of up to 500,000 leks for “anyone who chooses to remain in a crowd” that is carrying out acts of violence or looting in a public space, or “concealing their identity”. The socialist prime minister has also called for “dialogue”. Rama said on Sunday that he was inspired by a French bill, passed by the parliament’s upper house on Wednesday, that would make protesters financially liable for damage caused during street demonstrations.
