The civic revolt against the government and the entire political class continued today for the 48th consecutive day. Protesters gathered in the afternoon in Skanderbeg Square before moving in front of the Prime Minister’s Office. After several hours of speeches, they once again marched along the Boulevard, as they have done every evening, while warning of greater participation tomorrow.
Organisers have called on citizens to join the rally in as large numbers as possible. They insist that the main demand has not changed: Prime Minister Edi Rama must resign, and the political caste, which they say has held the country hostage for more than three decades, must leave.
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The movement’s position had also been clearly expressed on the 47th day of the protest. Organiser Edison Lika stated that no negotiations would be held and that no one would be allowed to politically represent this revolt.
According to Lika, the movement will never sit down for negotiations, as its demands are clearly defined. He stressed that there would be no negotiations with anyone and that the first point of the protest is Rama’s resignation.
At yesterday’s protest, activists also opposed efforts which, they said, seek to create the impression that reflection has begun within the ruling majority. They stressed that citizens will not be satisfied with either cosmetic measures or name changes in the government.
A symbolic moment of the rally was the presence of students in graduation gowns. Through the message, “We will stay; we will not leave,” they stressed that Albania’s future cannot be built without young people.
Activist Sidorela Vatnikaj called for investigations not to be limited only to former officials, but to reach the highest levels of government leadership. She stated that Edi Rama should be investigated as the head of a criminal organisation, rather than in his capacity as Albania’s prime minister.
Placards featuring irony and satire aimed at the government, the opposition and the entire political class remained among the most visible elements of the protest. The rally was also accompanied by chants that have become symbols of the movement: “Albania demands a revolution,” “New Albania,” “Your end has come,” “We will not stop until you resign,” “Rama, resign,” “Parliament of crime” and “Rama, SPAK you!”
After 47 consecutive days in the square, organisers had invited citizens to join the 48th rally as well. They insist that the protest will be held every day and will continue until the participants’ demands are met.
