Divjakë Continues Protest for 23 Days: Administrative Merger with Lushnjë Opposed

The protest by citizens of Divjakë against the Socialist Party’s administrative-territorial reform has entered its 23rd day. Residents oppose the plan that would incorporate the Municipality of Divjakë into a joint administrative unit with Lushnjë.

Although attendance at the gatherings has declined, protest representatives say this situation is the result of pressure that, according to them, the central government is exerting on citizens and the administration. They cite tax inspections and other forms of pressure.

During the gathering, protesters called on central institutions to exclude Divjakë from the territorial reform project, which they oppose and refer to as the “Mazniku” project.

Another demand is for the leaders and representatives of the Municipality of Divjakë administration, as well as the area’s members of parliament, to appear in the square and hear the residents’ concerns.

After the gathering ends, citizens march through the city’s streets. The march takes place every evening and has been repeated for 23 consecutive days.

Protesters insist that the Municipality of Divjakë must not be merged with Lushnjë and should continue to function as a separate administrative unit.

The protesters have stated that they will not end the protest without receiving a response from the government regarding Divjakë’s administrative future.