Albania's Prime Minister says he will not resign from office following the violent protests

Tens of thousands of students protested in Tirana on Wednesday, demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama over the rising costs of education, conditions at universities, the lack of financial support, and corruption. The demonstrations escalated, and police used water cannons after protesters smashed windows, threw stones, and caused damage in the capital. Parliament canceled its session because of the violence.

Several public assets were destroyed, including bus stops and traffic lights. A government building and two banks were set on fire, while burned trash bins remained on the streets.

Edi Rama rejected the calls for his resignation, arguing that governments change through elections, not revolutions. The prime minister said he was willing to discuss problems in education, but condemned the attacks on institutions.

The protests represent the most significant challenge for Rama, who is serving his fourth term. The government is pursuing Albania’s accession to the European Union starting in 2028, but the European path is being affected by corruption allegations and demonstrations previously linked to a controversial real estate project on the coast.