Albanian opposition MPs disrupt parliament vote on central bank law
Four opposition Democratic Party MPs were expelled after lighting smoke flares and blocking the podium during a vote on central bank legislation in Tirana on 29 Oct. The disruption followed weeks of student-led protests demanding Prime Minister Edi Rama's resignation, which have seen more than 350 injuries and attacks on government buildings. Rama responded on 25 Oct by imposing a 500,000 lek fine for participation in violent protests, and another demonstration is scheduled for 31 Oct.
Key facts
- Opposition lawmakers let off flares and blocked the podium during the central bank vote.
- Demonstrators have set fire to government buildings and banks, smashed windows and thrown paving stones at police.
- Opposition MPs accused police of using excessive force against demonstrators.
- Similar parliamentary disruptions occurred on 22 Oct when MPs surrounded the Speaker’s podium.
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Why it matters
The unrest challenges Albania's political stability and upcoming financial reforms.
What changed
First published from The Straits Times, The Hindu, Euronews, Africanews and Al Jazeera English