Albanian premier condemns student protesters as extremist and threatens penalties

Student-led protests in Tirana have escalated over seven days, with demonstrators using Molotov cocktails and stones while police responded with tear gas, water cannons and rubber bullets. Prime Minister Edi Rama told school principals and Education Minister Mirela Kumbaro that a minority of students hold extremist political views, stressing that the issue is violence, not the right to protest. He announced a €2,500 bonus for police and warned that anyone present at violent demonstrations would be targeted, with families facing financial liability and students losing scholarships and free education.

Rama also alleged that Russia, Iran and domestic opposition forces were fomenting the unrest, though no proof was presented. Opposition writer Fatos Lubonja condemned the speech as reminiscent of authoritarian rhetoric. The prime minister’s office said the remarks pertain only to violent acts and cited the Civil Code for any legal consequences.