Opposition lawmakers in Albania disrupted a Parliament session to protest the imprisonment of a fellow legislator, accusing the ruling party of misusing power. The Democratic Party of Albania has been at odds with the Socialist Party since 2013, staging violent protests against the government.
During the disruption, Democrats threw objects, burned chairs, and accused the imprisonment of Ervin Salianji as politically motivated. Salianji’s conviction stemmed from a case of alleged slander against the former interior minister, Fatmir Xhafaj, which was later proven to be fabricated.
The opposition’s leader, Sali Berisha, who is under house arrest on corruption charges, vowed to reclaim power ahead of the parliamentary election. The party has been divided after Berisha’s family members faced travel restrictions due to corruption allegations.
Albania’s struggle against corruption hampers its democratic and economic progress, as the country seeks full membership negotiations with the European Union. The opposition’s unrest reflects the deep-rooted political tensions in the nation.
Despite the challenges, Albania continues its journey towards democratic reform and European integration, striving to overcome internal rifts and external scrutiny.