By Micah Jonah, February 21, 2026
Violence broke out in Tirana, the capital of Albania, as protesters stormed the streets demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama.
Security operatives fired tear gas and deployed water cannon to disperse demonstrators who gathered near government buildings on Friday. The protesters were seen throwing fireworks and petrol bombs towards the prime minister’s office before moving in the direction of the parliament complex.
The confrontation between anti-riot police and demonstrators reportedly lasted for about two hours, with several streets around the legislature thrown into chaos. Authorities confirmed that about 30 persons were arrested, while members of the opposition claimed that more of their supporters were detained.
The protest is linked to a corruption investigation involving Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku, a close ally of Rama. She was indicted in December by a special prosecution unit, later suspended as investigations continue.
Chanting anti government slogans and waving national and party flags, thousands of opposition supporters accused the administration of corruption and economic hardship.
Opposition leader Sali Berisha of the Democratic Party insisted that the protests would continue until accountability is ensured. He accused the government of plunging the country into corruption and vowed that those found guilty would face the law.
Interior Minister, Albana Kociu condemned the violence, describing the attack on police officers and public property as criminal.
Despite the unrest, Rama’s Socialist Party still holds a clear majority in parliament following its victory in last year’s election. Albania is also pursuing membership of the European Union by 2030, even as political rivalry between major parties continues to generate tension in the country.
