Protests Erupt in Albania as Corruption Allegations Rock Government

Violent protests erupted in Albania’s capital Tirana on Monday after demonstrators hurled petrol bombs at a government building that houses the office of Prime Minister Edi Rama. The unrest comes amid growing political tensions following corruption allegations against Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku, with protesters demanding the immediate resignation of the government.

The demonstrations reflect escalating anger over accusations that Balluku, who also serves as Albania’s Minister of Infrastructure, misused state funds to favor certain private companies involved in major infrastructure projects. Prosecutors allege that tens or even hundreds of millions of euros were improperly directed through public contracts related to roads, bridges, and tunnel developments, sectors overseen by her ministry.

Political tensions in Albania have intensified in recent weeks since the Special Prosecution Office, the body responsible for fighting corruption and organized crime, formally indicted Balluku along with several officials and private firms. The prosecution has requested that Albania’s parliament lift her parliamentary immunity and approve her arrest, a move that has further inflamed public debate. However, it remains unclear when lawmakers will vote on the request, especially as Prime Minister Rama’s ruling party holds a majority in parliament.

Balluku has strongly denied the allegations, describing them during a parliamentary session last month as “mudslinging, insinuations, half-truths and lies.” She has insisted on her innocence and stated that she will fully cooperate with the judicial process. Despite these assurances, public trust appears deeply shaken.

During Monday’s protests, police in riot gear formed a protective barrier around the government building but refrained from dispersing the crowd, even as petrol bombs were thrown. Protesters voiced frustration over what they see as a lack of accountability at the highest levels of government. One demonstrator, Arben Sulo, said the alleged corruption involves enormous sums of public money and called it disgraceful that Balluku has not stepped down.

The unfolding situation underscores Albania’s ongoing struggle with corruption and governance, issues that continue to influence public confidence, political stability, and the country’s broader reform efforts.