Anger boils over in Tirana after prosecutors move against Deputy PM

Protesters in Tirana attacked the government building that houses the office of Prime Minister Edi Rama on December 22, hurling petrol bombs and demanding the government’s resignation after prosecutors moved to indict Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku on corruption allegations.

Political tensions in Albania have intensified in recent weeks following accusations against Balluku, who, along with several other officials and private companies, is suspected of using state funds to benefit certain firms involved in major infrastructure projects.

Prosecutors allege that public money was improperly directed in connection with large-scale developments.

Balluku addressed the allegations in parliament last month, dismissing them as “mudslinging, insinuations, half-truths and lies,” while pledging to fully cooperate with the judicial process.

The Special Prosecution Office, which is responsible for tackling corruption and organised crime, has formally asked parliament to lift Balluku’s immunity and authorise her arrest. It remains unclear when lawmakers will take up the request, although Rama’s ruling party holds a majority in parliament.

During Monday’s protest, police in riot gear formed a cordon around the government building but did not move to disperse demonstrators as petrol bombs were thrown.

“We have had enough because it’s a matter of tens and hundreds of millions of euros being stolen, and she isn’t resigning. This is disgraceful,” said protester Arben Sulo.

In addition to serving as deputy prime minister, Balluku heads the Ministry of Infrastructure, which oversees projects worth hundreds of millions of euros, including the construction of roads, bridges and tunnels.

By Tamilla Hasanova