Albania plans tough measures against violent protesters as students demand PM Rama's resignation
Tirana, Oct 21 (UNI) The Albanian government is preparing a package of measures against protesters who attack police officers, engage in violence during demonstrations or damage public and private property.
Prime Minister Edi Rama has warned that authorities could introduce stricter penalties, including the identification of masked demonstrators, action against social media accounts accused of inciting violence and possible restrictions on access to public services, Albania statemedia reported. Among the proposals reportedly under consideration are a "special registry for violent protesters and the use of Albania's TIMS border management system to restrict their entry into European union countries."
Possible restrictions on hotel accommodation and transport services are also being considered. The government has not yet published the complete package. "We will not only release the package of measures an hour earlier, but by investing quickly in technology, we will begin de-anonymising profiles that incite violence," Rama said. The proposed measures could also affect minors and their families. The government is considering requiring parents to pay for damage caused by their children during protests, alongside a possible reduction in the age of criminal responsibility, currently set at 14.
PM Rama has also warned of potential sanctions against students involved in violence, including the withdrawal of scholarships and state financial assistance. In the education sector, the proposals reportedly include administrative action against students who skip classes to participate in violent demonstrations and penalties for teachers who encourage students to engage in violence. Another proposal under consideration is restricting social media use among children under the age of 16. The government has not yet clarified which proposals will be adopted or how the measures would be implemented.
Meanwhile, students and university lecturers continued their demonstrations in Tirana, marching from the Polytechnic University to the Prime Minister's Office and reiterating their demand for Rama's resignation. Protesters again rejected the prime minister's invitation to dialogue by removing and throwing chairs that had been placed outside the government building for discussions. Lecturer Ilirjana Kuçana attempted to stop the demonstrators from throwing the chairs, urging students not to fall into what she described as the prime minister's "trap". Before throwing some of the chairs, protesters placed personal belongings and a bottle of beer on them, saying they were intended for Rama.
The demonstration continued outside the government headquarters, with students and lecturers insisting that their campaign would continue until the prime minister stepped down. "We will not end the boycott and protests until Rama steps down," protesters said, reiterating their position on the ongoing demonstrations. The latest developments highlight growing tensions between the government and demonstrators, as authorities seek to prevent further violence while protesters maintain pressure on the prime minister.
Rama's proposed measures have yet to be formally announced in full, leaving questions over their legal scope, enforcement and potential impact on civil liberties. For now, students and lecturers remain committed to their boycott, while the government is considering stricter measures against those involved in violence and property damage.
UNI AAB
