Opposition supporters torch symbolic pillows outside Rama's office and march to Education Ministry

Tirana saw heightened tensions on Saturday as opposition supporters from the Democratic Party assembled outside Prime Minister Edi Rama's office and burned pillows that the prime minister had placed to signal openness to student dialogue. The demonstration lasted roughly ninety minutes before participants marched toward the Ministry of Education, where a student demonstration is slated for 2 pm, with university lecturers also expected to join.

Security forces have bolstered their presence around the ministry, deploying a water cannon and units of the Rapid Intervention Forces (FNSH) following social-media calls for student participation. Rama said his government is preparing a response to the concerns voiced by the protesters and stressed that public sympathy reflects a demand for greater attentiveness. He also issued a stern warning that any glorification or perpetration of violence would be met with a prolonged and persistent state response. Authorities remain on alert as the two groups prepare to converge on the education ministry.