Psychology student Livia Dedej said on Euronews’ “Review” program, hosted by Greta Topjana, that the student protest should remain focused on citizens’ concerns and not be used by political forces.
According to her, there is a high level of distrust toward both the government and the opposition in Albania. Dedej stressed that the students have not aligned themselves with any party, but have taken to the streets to express their grievances. For this reason, she called on lawmakers who bear responsibility for the country’s situation not to try to gain political advantage from the protest.
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Dedej praised the assistance provided by every citizen who has taken part in the protest, regardless of whether or not they are members of the Democratic Party. She also mentioned the support provided by the DP headquarters, which, according to her, has sheltered protesters, including some of her friends, protecting them from tear gas, police violence and other difficult situations. The student also thanked those who have provided legal assistance to the protesters.
However, she emphasized that the Democratic Party must first address the reasons that have created the widespread distrust toward it before becoming involved in the protest. Clashes, Dedej said, are inevitable, since it is impossible to convince every student and protester that the opposition’s presence in the square has purely positive aims.
The student said that the personal interests of some lawmakers or supporters cannot be overlooked. She stressed that corruption cannot be attributed solely to the Socialist Party, as it has been a problem linked to the entire parliament, in which the Democratic Party is also represented.
“We are not supporters of foreign hands. We are in the square to express our grievances,” Livia Dedej said.
She added that statements by the Democratic Party could put the students in a position where public opinion might consider them paid or engaged to support the opposition, undermining the independent nature of the protest.
Dedej clarified that the demand for the lawmakers’ departure does not mean the departure of Democrats. According to her, it refers to those politicians who have allowed or contributed to creating Albania’s current situation and who, for this reason, cannot expect to be welcomed with open arms by the protesters.
