Albania’s capital saw protests on Sunday (October 18, 2026) for a sixth day in a row as Prime Minister Edi Rama ruled out resigning, the main demand of the protesters.
“I love my country, but my government does not respect us – it defies us. This week’s unrest comes after months of anti-government protests in the Balkan nation, initially sparked by a controversial resort development linked to U.S. President Donald Trump’s family.
2026) morning 65 people were injured of which 37 were police officers, while 12 were hospitalised, according to the Ministry of Health report issued on Sunday (October 18. Since Tuesday (October 13, 2026), 272 people were injured in the clashes, including 169 police officers, the Ministry said.
Hundreds of protesters gathered again on Sunday (October 18, 2026) at noon in front of the Education Ministry chanting “Rama, resign” in a tense standoff with the police, who later used water cannons and tear gas to hold back the crowds. Every citizen must take responsibility for their country, taking on the duty to lead, to love, and not to destroy one’s own nation”, she said.
