Tirana: Protests erupted overnight in the Albanian capital after Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku was accused of corruption. Protesters threw petrol bombs at government buildings and demanded accountability for alleged misuse of state funds in major infrastructure projects.
Deputy Prime Minister accused of benefiting companies
Balluku, along with several officials and private companies, is accused of misusing state funds to benefit certain companies. Last month, she described these allegations in parliament as “slander, half-truths, and lies” and said she would fully cooperate with the judicial process.
Tensions escalate in parliament and on the streets
Earlier, opposition MPs clashed with security officers in the parliament building, where they resorted to throwing fire, water, and occupying ministers’ seats. Riot police guarded government buildings during the protests but did not attempt to disperse the demonstrators.
Political Tensions and Ongoing Discontent
The Special Prosecution Office has requested Parliament to remove Balluku’s parliamentary security and allow his arrest. Opposition leaders have threatened to continue the protests and demanded law and order. Meanwhile, Socialist Party leaders have accused opposition leader Sali Berisha of inciting unrest.
Injured: Two state police officers, a photographer, and a protester were injured.