Physical clashes broke out between opposition and ruling-party lawmakers inside Albania’s parliament on Thursday, October 22, as student-led anti-government protests continued for a tenth consecutive day.
Tensions escalated during a parliamentary session in Tirana when opposition lawmakers gathered around the speaker’s podium, demanding that proceedings be suspended amid continuing unrest across the country.
Opposition members displayed photographs of protesters allegedly injured during police interventions. Some lawmakers reportedly ripped microphones from desks, threw papers and water, and became involved in physical confrontations with members of the governing Socialist Party.
Parliamentary security personnel intervened to separate lawmakers as the situation deteriorated.
Protests Reach the Parliament
Outside the building, hundreds of students and other demonstrators gathered to continue protests that began on October 13.
The demonstrations initially focused on education, with students demanding lower university fees, better facilities, greater government investment, and improved opportunities after graduation.
However, the movement has expanded into a broader anti-government protest, with demonstrators demanding accountability over corruption allegations and calling for the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama.
Opposition leader Sali Berisha said his lawmakers were representing the demands of students, while members of the governing Socialist Party accused the opposition of exploiting the unrest for political purposes.
Growing Concerns Over Police Response
During previous demonstrations, Albanian police used tear gas, water cannons, and batons to disperse crowds, while some protesters threw rocks, fireworks, and incendiary devices.
The opposition has demanded an investigation into allegations of excessive police force.
Prime Minister Rama has condemned the violence and called for dialogue, maintaining that political change cannot be achieved through violent demonstrations.
A Deepening Political Confrontation
Thursday’s parliamentary clashes mark another escalation in Albania’s political crisis.
The protests have brought renewed attention to problems facing young Albanians, including education costs, unemployment, limited career opportunities, and the continued emigration of educated workers.
With demonstrations continuing and the government facing increasing pressure, the confrontation inside parliament highlights the widening divisions between Albania’s political leadership and protesters demanding change.
Sources: AFP, Associated Press, Fox News, Anadolu Agency, October 20–22, 2026.
Video source: Fox News on X (formerly Twitter), October 22, 2026.
By NJ RADAR Team