The resistance continues for 121 days, citizens take to the square again today! They demand Rama’s resignation

The citizens’ protest against the government continues today with its 121st day, as citizens and activists are expected to gather again in Tirana, one day after the 120th protest, which featured speeches, banners, flares and a march through the capital’s streets.

Sunday’s protest began with citizens gathering and continued with speeches near the Prime Minister’s Office. After the speeches ended, the protesters marched through the streets of Tirana, accompanied by flags, banners and flares.

During the march, chants were heard including “Edi Rama, resign,” “Your end has come,” “Arrest Rama,” “Revolution,” “Students, join us, the nation is calling” and “Down with the narco-state.”

One of the messages repeated during the protest was “Albania is not for sale,” while protesters called for greater participation by young people, with the slogan “There is no Albania without youth.” The banners and slogans on the 120th day reflected the protesters’ demands for political and institutional change.

At the center of the demands remains the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama. Protesters are also calling for the creation of a transitional government and the amendment or repeal of several laws which, they say, run counter to citizens’ interests. Organizers and participants have stated that the protest will continue even after reaching 120 days.

One of the strongest messages from yesterday’s protest came from activist Dritan Goxhaj, who declared that there would be no turning back and that the protest should continue without a violent escalation.

According to him, the use of violence would serve those in power, while protesters should continue their peaceful resistance. Goxhaj said their goal is an Albania freed from corruption and nepotism, stressing that fatigue is part of the “price of freedom.”

Goxhaj also criticized the way institutions and the healthcare system operate, calling for police leaders not to be linked to crime and for citizens to have functional healthcare services. “We are here not because we are not tired and have no other choice, but because we believe in this Albania,” he declared.

On the 120th day, protesters also used another symbolic message, mocking Prime Minister Rama’s phrase “Noc Rrok” with the banner “Knock-knock,” in reference to their demands for justice and institutional accountability. Calls for Rama’s arrest were also repeated at the same protest.

Yesterday’s protest took place amid a tense political debate, following developments surrounding former SHISH chief Vlora Hyseni and the publication of materials from the investigation. The issue was also among the topics mentioned at the protest, while demonstrators called for accountability and an investigation by justice institutions.

On the 120th day, messages against the government concerning AKSHI and other issues that have dominated protests in recent days were also displayed. One of the banners was addressed to SPAK, calling for action, while chants calling for officials to be brought to justice were repeated during the march.