Protesters speak calmly with police: The stones aren’t aimed at you, but at Edi Rama

At today’s protest, which has been ongoing since the morning, there were also moments of calm communication between protesters and State Police officers.

Although protesters shouted loudly at the police, the two sides spoke directly on “Martyrs of the Nation” Boulevard without any clashes.

A masked protester told an officer that their anger was not directed at the police, but at Prime Minister Edi Rama. He apologized for any stones thrown at them, saying that every stone aimed at the officers was meant for Edi Rama. The protester added that they did not know the officers or who they were, but considered them all friends and comrades.

Another protester suggested that an officer take off his uniform, saying he would be better off doing so. He stressed that this was only his opinion, that the officer could decide for himself, and that the protesters respected the officers.

These conversations took place amid the tensions surrounding the protest, as protesters continued to stand opposite the police forces.