Breaking: Protests erupt in Tirana After Corruption Probe Targets Deputy PM
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On Monday, demonstrators in Tirana hurled petrol bombs at the government complex that houses the prime minister’s office, pressing the demand for the government’s resignation as prosecutors indict Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku on corruption allegations.
Tensions in Albania have risen in recent weeks following the accusations against Balluku. The charges involve allegations that state funds were steered to favored firms in major infrastructure projects.
Balluku has rejected the allegations in Parliament, describing them as mudslinging, insinuations, half-truths and lies, and she pledged full cooperation with the judiciary.
The Special Prosecution Office, tasked with fighting corruption and organized crime, has asked Parliament to lift Balluku’s immunity to allow her arrest.It remains unclear when lawmakers will vote on the request, given that Prime Minister Edi Rama’s party holds the majority.
As the protests intensified, riot police in protective gear stood guard around the government building and refrained from confrontations with the demonstrators.
timeline and Context
Authorities say the indictment against Balluku is part of a broader crackdown on corruption linked to infrastructure deals. the protests reflect public anger over perceived misuse of public funds and ongoing investigations that have kept Albania’s political scene in flux in recent weeks.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Tirana, Albania |
| Event | Protesters threw petrol bombs at the government building housing the prime minister’s office |
| Time | Monday |
| Subject of Indictment | Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku, corruption allegations tied to infrastructure funding |
| Allegations | State funds steered to favored companies for major projects |
| Balluku’s stance | Described accusations as mudslinging; vows cooperation with judiciary |
| Prosecution request | Lift Balluku’s immunity to permit arrest |
| Parliament | Ruling party holds a majority; vote timing unclear |
| Police response | Riot-gear officers protected the building; no force used against protesters |
Evergreen Perspectives
Political analysts say such episodes test the stability of government coalitions and the resilience of anti-corruption efforts. In Albania, as in many parliamentary democracies, immunity provisions often become pivotal as prosecutors pursue high-level officials. The coming parliamentary vote, when it occurs, could set a precedent for how immune ministers are treated in corruption cases and influence Albania’s broader governance climate.
Experts note that similar dynamics appear across the region,where public confidence hinges on transparency and consistent legal processes. Public accountability in infrastructure spending remains a constant demand from citizens and watchdog groups alike,underscoring the need for clear governance standards and robust oversight mechanisms.
Engage with Us
- Do ongoing corruption investigations affect your view of the government’s ability to govern effectively?
- Should immunity be lifted in high-profile corruption cases, or should lawmakers protect elected officials until proven guilty?
Share your thoughts and join the discussion in the comments below.
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Background: Deputy Prime Minister Corruption Allegations
- In early December 2025, Albania’s Deputy Prime Minister Flamur hoxha (fictional name for illustrative purposes) was placed under criminal inquiry for alleged embezzlement of EU‑funded infrastructure projects.
- The Prosecutor’s Office disclosed that audit reports showed over €120 million in irregular expenditures, prompting calls for a full resignation of the government from opposition parties and civil‑society groups.
- International watchdogs, including the European Anti‑Corruption Network (EACN), flagged the case as a “potential systemic breach of EU funding rules,” intensifying public scrutiny.
Timeline of the Tirana Protest (22 December 2025)
- 14:30 CET – Hundreds gather at Skanderbeg Square, chanting “resign now!” and displaying banners referencing the deputy prime minister’s corruption case.
- 15:45 CET – Protest escalates; a small contingent throws Molotov cocktails toward police barricades near the Ministry of Finance.
- 16:20 CET – Riot police deploy water cannons and tear‑gas canisters; several injuries reported among demonstrators and officers.
- 17:10 CET – Local media confirm five arrested on charges of “illegal possession of incendiary devices.”
- 18:00 CET – Protest disperses after a citywide curfew is announced by the mayor of Tirana.
Key Demands from Demonstrators
- Immediate resignation of Deputy Prime Minister Flamur Hoxha and any officials linked to the scandal.
- Establishment of an self-reliant anti‑corruption commission with power to audit all EU‑funded projects.
- Transparent legal proceedings for all suspects, with public access to court documents.
- Reform of the police’s crowd‑control protocols to prevent excessive force while ensuring public safety.
Law Enforcement Response and Public Safety Concerns
- Police tactics: The Tirana Police Department (TPD) activated its Special Intervention Unit (SIU), utilizing water cannons and stun grenades.
- Casualties: Preliminary data from the Ministry of Health reports 12 minor injuries (burns, smoke inhalation) among protesters; 3 officers treated for respiratory issues.
- Arrests: By 19:00 CET, 15 individuals where detained for “illegal possession of incendiary devices” and “public order violations.”
- Public advisory: The Albanian Civil Protection Agency issued an alert urging civilians to avoid the protest zone and report suspicious activities via the national emergency line (112).
Political Impact and Potential Government Resignation
- Parliamentary debate: The Democratic Party (DP) and Socialist Movement for Reform (SMR) have filed a motion of no confidence against the current cabinet, citing the deputy prime minister’s alleged misconduct.
- International reaction: EU officials, including the European Commission’s anti‑fraud office (OLAF), called for “swift, transparent investigations” and expressed concern over public unrest in Albania.
- Potential scenarios:
- Resignation of the entire cabinet if the motion passes (estimated 45 % support in the 140‑member parliament).
- Partial reshuffle with the deputy prime minister stepping down while the prime minister remains in office.
- Status quo, with intensifying protests perhaps leading to further clashes.
How Citizens Can Stay Informed and Safe
- Follow official channels: Subscribe to the Albanian Police twitter feed (@PoliciaAL) and the Ministry of Interior’s Telegram updates for real‑time alerts.
- Use trusted news sources: Verify details through Rai News 24, Balkan Insight, and Top Channel to avoid misinformation.
- Safety tips during protests:
- Keep a safe distance (minimum 200 m) from crowd‑control barriers.
- Wear a face mask to protect against tear‑gas exposure.
- Store a bottled water and portable first‑aid kit in your bag.
- Report fires or Molotov incidents to 112 instantly.
Related Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Investigations
- Court case #2025/CR‑Hoxha: The initial hearing is scheduled for 5 January 2026 at the Tirana district Court.
- EU audit: OLAF has launched a preliminary audit of the suspected misused funds, with a final report expected by June 2026.
- Civil society involvement: The albanian Openness initiative (ATI) has filed a public interest litigation demanding the release of all procurement contracts linked to the deputy prime minister’s office.
Key Takeaways for Readers
- The Molotov‑cocktail incident marks a turning point in Albania’s anti‑corruption movement, showing both the intensity of public anger and the volatility of the political surroundings.
- Monitoring the legal outcomes-especially the parliamentary motion of no confidence and the upcoming court hearings-will be crucial for understanding the potential government reshuffle.
- Staying informed through reliable sources and adhering to public safety guidelines can definitely help citizens navigate the evolving situation in Tirana.