PM says protesters must be heard but criticises organisers

Prime Minister Edi Rama has said citizens have the right to protest, but accused organisers of exploiting public anger.

In a social media post, Rama said ordinary protesters should be separated from the people he described as the “dangerous socio-political waste” behind the demonstrations.

The protests have been taking place for about a month on Tirana’s main government boulevard.

Rama said citizens’ concerns should be heard and used to strengthen Albania’s push towards EU membership by 2030.

But he accused political figures behind the protests of misusing public frustration, saying the governing majority would emerge closer to the people.