"Anyone can demand my resignation. This is part of democratic life. No one has the right to impose it through violence," Albanian Prime Minister Eri Rama declared in an interview with the Greek newspaper "Kathimerini".
Rama expresses his determination to remain at the helm of the country, despite the violent protests that have occurred in Tirana in recent weeks.
He says there is a difference between students seeking a better future and individuals in hoods – some of whom, he says, are linked to the "Antifa" movement.
"A minority believes that setting the country on fire is the shortest path to power," Rama says.
How does it respond to protesters' demands for better education, the fight against corruption, and a reduction in the cost of living?
Rama: I have never claimed that everything in Albania is perfect. I do not believe that young people should simply accept what we have achieved so far. Their concerns regarding education, the cost of living and the lack of real opportunities are legitimate and require substantial responses. The 2027 budget, which we will present soon, includes additional measures for families, public services and students. At the same time, I have invited students and teachers to engage in an open dialogue. I am ready to consider any serious proposal – even those coming from individuals who are our harshest critics.
However, there is a clear dividing line between students who want a better future and groups of hooded individuals – some of whom I have associated with the “Antifa” movement – who throw Molotov cocktails, attack public buildings, and cause damage to private property. Fighting corruption is the responsibility of judicial institutions; it is not the job of those who use violence as a tool to claim to represent an entire generation.
Do you intend to resign?
Rama: No. In a democracy, governments change through elections, not through Molotov cocktails. The Albanian people gave us a clear mandate last year and I intend to fulfill it. Anyone is free to demand my resignation – this is part of democratic life. No one has the right to impose it by force. It is my duty to listen to legitimate complaints, to protect the rights of citizens and to continue working for Albania’s integration into the European Union. I will not give up this duty just because a minority believes that setting the country on fire is the shortest path to power.
©Prepared in Albanian by LAPSI.al
