Day 48 of the revolt: Speeches outside the Prime Minister’s Office conclude as citizens march along the Boulevard: No negotiations, Rama must resign

The citizens’ revolt against the government and the entire political class entered its 48th day today. Protesters gathered again this afternoon in Skanderbeg Square before moving in front of the Prime Minister’s Office. After several hours of speeches, they began their nightly march along the Boulevard, demonstrating that the movement launched weeks ago will continue.

According to the organisers, the protesters’ core demand has not changed: Prime Minister Edi Rama must resign, and the political caste, which they accuse of holding the country hostage for more than three decades, must leave. The organisers have also called for the broadest possible participation.

The movement’s position was clearly articulated during the 47th day of the protest as well. Organiser Edison Lika said there would be no negotiations and that no one would be allowed to represent the revolt politically.

“This movement will never enter into negotiations because its demands are clear. We will not negotiate with anyone. The first demand of this protest is Rama’s resignation,” he said.

At yesterday’s rally, activists also opposed what they described as attempts to create the impression that reflection had begun within the majority. They stressed that citizens would not be satisfied with cosmetic interventions or the replacement of names in the government cabinet.

The presence of students in graduation gowns was one of the protest’s most symbolic moments. Through the message, “We will stay, we will not leave,” they stressed that Albania cannot build its future without its young people.

Meanwhile, activist Sidorela Vatnikaj called for investigations not to be limited to former officials, but to reach the highest levels of government leadership.

“Edi Rama should be investigated as the head of a criminal organisation and not as Albania’s prime minister,” she declared.

Placards featuring irony and satire aimed at the government, the opposition and the entire political class remained among the rally’s most visible elements. Protesters also repeated the chants that have become symbols of the movement: “Albania demands revolution,” “New Albania,” “Your time is up,” “We will not stop until you resign,” “Rama, resign,” “Parliament of crime,” and “Rama SPAK you!”

After 47 consecutive days of protests, organisers say the daily demonstrations will continue. They invited citizens to join the 48th rally as well, insisting that the protest will not end until the participants’ demands are met.