Prince Leka supports protesting students: Young people’s voices must be heard, violence and police intimidation are unacceptable

Prince Leka, heir to the Royal Throne, has expressed his support for the Albanian students who are protesting. He called for their right to peaceful assembly to be guaranteed, allegations of violence against young people to be investigated, and those who break the law to be held accountable.

In a statement, the Royal Court said it had followed with concern reports of violence and mistreatment of students, young people and minors, both during their escort by police and at police stations.

According to the Court, video footage and photographs have documented the events, so the responsible institutions must enforce the law and ensure that those who have abused their office are held to account.

The Royal Court called on the students to convey their concerns abroad as well, informing the international community about what they see and experience. The statement stressed that young people’s voices must be heard and that events must be reported honestly and responsibly.

The State Police, meanwhile, was urged to act with professionalism and restraint. Authorities must protect citizens, not intimidate them or escalate tensions through excessive force; any inappropriate conduct must be followed by accountability.

The Court recalled that peaceful protest requires responsibility and that violence or damage to private property are unacceptable, as they undermine the legitimacy of any just cause.

In conclusion, it called for calm, dialogue and respect for fundamental rights, while urging that the voices of Albanian young people be heard and their future protected.