Albanian protesters torch chairs outside prime minister's office, prompting new crackdown measures

On the 13th day of ongoing demonstrations in Tirana, protesters ignited chairs that Prime Minister Enti Rama had placed outside the prime ministerial palace as a symbolic invitation for dialogue. The fire-setting underscored the demonstrators' rejection of what they described as a "sheep branch" offered by the government and reinforced their demand for Rama's resignation. The protests have so far resulted in the detention of 30 participants, with an equal number still being sought by authorities.

In response, Rama unveiled a specialized anti-violence and anti-anarchy package that includes steep fines for violent acts, amendments to assembly laws, and an electronic database for those accused of crimes against the state and public safety. The plan also targets educators who organize or coordinate minors' involvement in protests deemed contrary to children's interests. Earlier, Rama said he was in constant contact with France and Italy to coordinate responses, noting similar unrest in those countries. The opposition Democratic Party labeled the new measures unconstitutional and called the announcement a "declaration of dictatorship," suggesting that social stability in Albania remains fragile.