Student protests in Tirana draw international media attention, Bloomberg: Calls grow for Rama to step down

The protest held in Tirana on Saturday, October 24, was also covered by the American news outlet Bloomberg, which highlighted growing calls for Prime Minister Edi Rama’s resignation and clashes between protesters and police.

Bloomberg reports that student-led rallies have been continuing in the capital for about two weeks. According to the outlet, they are part of a movement that emerged several months ago in opposition to plans to build a luxury resort.

Many citizens took part in Saturday’s protest. Alongside students, university lecturers, teachers, opposition politicians and other public figures joined the rally.

The report also covers the tense situation on Tirana’s main boulevard. Protesters threw stones and other objects at police, while several rubbish bins were set on fire. Police used tear gas, water cannons and rubber bullets, while clashes spread to other parts of the capital.

Before the protests, Prime Minister Edi Rama said the government was preparing measures to address citizens’ concerns about the cost of living, housing and economic opportunities.

The American outlet notes that the issues raised by the protesters are similar to those that have also fuelled protest movements in France.

Bloomberg’s coverage has brought the October 24 protest into the international media spotlight, as rallies continue in Tirana and political demands on the government grow.