HighLights
  1. Opposition lawmakers set off flares, smoke bombs in parliament.
  2. Opposition MPs demanded PM Edi Rama's resignation.
  3. Wider protests over corruption, living costs, education is ongoing in Albania.

Albania Parliament Chaos: Albania’s Parliament on Thursday witnessed chaotic scenes as opposition lawmakers set off flares and smoke bombs inside the parliamentary chamber. Videos that have emerged online show thick clouds of red and blue smoke filling the room as lawmakers were holding a vote. The protest disrupted house proceedings as opposition members tried to block the vote and bring attention to their demands for Prime Minister Edi Rama’s resignation.

Video Captures Chaos

Opposition lawmakers reportedly set off flares, blew whistles and blocked the main podium, bringing the proceedings to a halt. Some lawmakers tried to grab the smoking flares as the chamber filled with coloured smoke. Members of the opposition also clashed with lawmakers from the ruling party and threw water bottles at PM Edi Rama. Several other MPs held up photographs that they said showed police violence against student protesters injured by rubber bullets. The protest by the opposition aimed at stopping the vote and drawing attention to the ongoing demonstrations across the country.

Protests In Albania

The protests in Albania, which first began in May have grown into wider protests against the government. The demonstration had earlier started over a controversial luxury hotel and resort project planned in a protected nature reserve. The project is linked to Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of US President Donald Trump. The movement grew into wider protest after students began demonstrating on October 13 over high university fees, poor campus conditions and concerns about education standards.

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The protests have now continued for 17 days and raised concerns about problems in the country's healthcare system. Protesters and opposition groups have accused PM Rama’s government of corruption and poor governance. They have also voiced concerns about the rising cost of living, education costs and the quality of public services. Meanwhile, the opposition is demanding Rama’s resignation after 13 years in office. Protesters have also accused the police of using force against student demonstrators.

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