Albania protests scar Tirana as fines imposed

Anti-government protests in Albania have damaged parts of central Tirana and prompted the government to introduce new fines for violent demonstrators.

The protests are demanding the resignation of Socialist Prime Minister Edi Rama. They began in May with rallies against a luxury hotel project in a nature reserve linked to the family of US President Donald Trump, then grew in mid-October into wider demonstrations over perceived corruption, health system problems and limited prospects for young people.

The rallies have deteriorated into clashes between protesters and security forces. In central Tirana, traffic lights have been ripped out, bus shelters burned, shop windows smashed and parts of public buildings damaged.

Rama has ruled out stepping down. On Wednesday, his government adopted measures allowing fines of up to 500,000 leks, or about 5,500 euros, for people who remain in a crowd carrying out violence or looting in a public space, or who conceal their identity.

Authorities estimate that damage from the demonstrations exceeds two million euros. They say 127 businesses have been affected and more than 350 people have been injured.