The Tirana Police have officially filed a complaint with the Special Structure Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) against 23 opposition MPs following their involvement in acts of violence and arson during Monday’s parliamentary session. These actions followed the sentencing of opposition MP Ervin Salianji for false reporting.

Why is this important: The violent actions, including setting chairs on fire outside the parliament building, signal a significant escalation in the ongoing political tensions between the opposition and the ruling Socialist Party. The opposition accuses the government of manipulating the judiciary to suppress political opponents. 

Context:

• Accusations: Among those charged, Flamur Noka, Secretary General of the Democratic Party, is accused of two criminal offenses: “Destruction of property by fire” and “Assault due to duty,” while Gazmend Bardhi, head of the opposition’s parliamentary group, faces charges for throwing objects at the Speaker, including parts of a chair.
• Actions: The protest escalated when opposition MPs removed their chairs from the chamber, doused them in gasoline, and set them ablaze in the parliamentary courtyard.

Opposition Response:

• Sali Berisha’s call for civil disobedience: Sali Berisha, the leader of the Democratic Party, expressed pride in his parliamentary group’s actions, encouraging further civil disobedience at local councils. He stated, “This is the only form left to the opposition to defend democracy and the rule of law.”
• Gazmend Bardhi’s statement: Bardhi defended the opposition’s approach, criticizing the Government for ignoring Constitutional Court decisions in favor of the opposition. He emphasized that such symbolic acts pose no threat to public safety but instead challenge the personal power of Prime Minister Edi Rama.

Government and diplomatic reactions:

• Prime Minister Edi Rama: Rama condemned the opposition’s violent behavior, contrasting his administration’s efforts to “build and heal” to the opposition’s actions, which he described as destructive. He criticized the opposition for using parliament to disrupt the democratic process rather than engaging in constructive dialogue.
• European Union and U.S. Reactions: The European Union’s ambassador, Silvio Gonzato, expressed disappointment over the events, emphasizing that violence and damage to property have no place in a democratic society. The U.S. Embassy echoed similar concerns, urging all parties to exercise restraint and focus on dialogue to further Albania’s EU accession efforts.

What’s Next: Parliament has announced the formation of a working group to assess the damages caused during the protest. Those involved will be held financially responsible for repairs, with funds deducted from their salaries. Additionally, a disciplinary committee is set to meet on Wednesday to discuss possible sanctions against the 24 MPs involved, as proposed by a group of Socialist MPs.