Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama Faces Protests, Calls for Resignation

Protesters Set Tires Ablaze, Clash with Police

Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama is facing mounting pressure to resign amid protests and clashes with police. Demonstrators have been calling for Rama's resignation after an Italian ferry capsized in the Adriatic Sea, resulting in the deaths of Albanian citizens.

Italy Ferry Tragedy Sparks Outrage

Protests erupted following the tragic incident on June 6, 2024, in which an Italian ferry carrying dozens of Albanian passengers capsized off the coast of Italy. The disaster has sparked outrage and grief in Albania, with many blaming the government for failing to ensure the safety of its citizens traveling abroad.

Rama Defends Government Response

In response to the protests, Rama has defended his government's handling of the situation. He has expressed his condolences to the victims and pledged to hold those responsible for the tragedy accountable. However, the protesters have remained unconvinced, demanding Rama's resignation and a more comprehensive investigation into the incident.

Diplomatic Pressure

The protests have also drawn attention from the international community. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called for the Albanian government to address the concerns of protesters and ensure justice for the victims of the ferry disaster. The United Nations has also expressed concern over the escalation of violence and has urged peaceful dialogue to resolve the situation.