Thousands of opposition supporters joined a protest in the Albanian capital Tirana on October 7. The demonstration turned violent, with protesters throwing Molotov cocktails and setting fire to the entrance to the ruling Socialist Party headquarters. 

The protests were sparked by anger over the imprisonment of Democratic Party official Ervin Salianji for "giving false testimony", and followed violent actions by opposition MPs within the parliament. The centre-right opposition Democratic Party claims the case is politically motivated, as it ramps up its actions ahead of the 2025 general elections.

Scuffles broke out in front of the government building as demonstrators attempted to break through police lines. Some protesters threw Molotov cocktails, while others chanted, “Down with the dictatorship.” 

The crowd later marched to the headquarters of Prime Minister Edi Rama’s Socialist Party, where more Molotov cocktails were hurled, setting fire to the entrance of the building. 

More than 1,000 police officers were deployed across Tirana in anticipation of the protests. In a bid to control the crowd, officers resorted to using tear gas. 

“So far 10 police officers have been injured in the attacks with Molotov cocktails, pyrotechnics, and solid objects,” the police said in a statement. 

Local media reported that some protesters were taken to hospital, with many suffering from the effects of tear gas.

Protesters called on Rama, who has ruled the country since 2013, to resign. They also demanded the release of former prime minister and president Sali Berisha. He is currently under house arrest and was recently charged in a corruption case concerning a controversial property deal. 

In late September and early October, opposition MPs protested several times within the parliament. A case involving 25 lawmakers has been referred to special prosecutors after the violent protests by MPs over the jailing of Salianji. 

Opposition parties accuse the government of undermining public institutions and consolidating power. As they become increasingly frustrated by Rama’s hold on power in Albania, opposition MPs have frequently resorted to violence in the parliament. 

Meanwhile, the position of the main opposition Democratic Party has been undermined by a lengthy power struggle between Berisha and rival politicians.

Both the European Union and the US have urged the opposition to seek dialogue with the government and avoid violent actions.