Opposition politicians tried to disrupt a vote during a regular session of parliament on Thursday. They banged on tables and threw objects at Prime Minister Edi Rama. Then they lit red flares and set off smoke bombs that released blue smoke.
“Resign, Rama!” the members chanted, holding up pictures said to show protesters being beaten by police.
Albanians have been demonstrating for more than a week, demanding investment in education and protesting the high cost of living. The demonstrations have degenerated into numerous violent clashes.
Edi Rama has accused “foreign actors” of being behind the whole thing. The opposition claims he is trying to sweep the situation under the carpet. The protest movement accuses both the government and the opposition of widespread corruption.
