Berisha announces “massive” protest for December 23
Sali Berisha, leader of the Democratic Party, announced a massive protest in Tirana on December 23, aimed at blocking the city from all directions. The announcement comes on the heels of Berisha’s admission of a legal loss in the UK over his “non grata” designation. Speaking at a National Council meeting, Berisha called the protest a show of civil disobedience.
Why is this important: The planned demonstration reflects Berisha’s strategy of mobilizing public protests to reassert his leadership and redirect focus to his opposition platform. Coming after his legal defeat, however, the protest is seen by some as an attempt to maintain political pressure on the government and justice institutions.
Context: Earlier this week, Berisha acknowledged losing his legal case in the UK. He clarified that the case aimed to challenge procedural issues related to his designation rather than overturning the “non grata” status. He hinted at taking the matter to the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg, stating, “This now opens the path for my lawyers to pursue the case further,” he said. “There were serious procedural violations that need to be addressed.”
What did he say: In his speech announcing the protest, Berisha claimed international support for his demonstrations, stating that the protests have been well-received by the foreign press as acts against dictatorship and for freedom. He urged supporters to fully mobilize, promising to block Tirana “completely, from Qafë Priska to Vorë.”
Berisha also promised a “dynamic and strong” scenario for the protest but withheld details, stating they would be revealed closer to the date.
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