TIRANA, Oct 15 /ATA/ President of the Republic Bajram Begaj has urged citizens and all parties involved in the aftermath of the recent protests to refrain from violence and prioritise dialogue, emphasising the need for calm, responsibility and cooperation.
In a message to the public, the Head of State said he had been closely following both the protests and citizens’ demands, as well as the acts of violence reported over the past two days.
“Albania is our shared homeland and a home for everyone. I have been following the protests and the demands being voiced, but also, with regret, the acts of violence witnessed over the past two days,” Begaj said.
The President emphasised the need to listen to citizens, especially young people, noting that their concerns and demands deserve to be heard and given due attention.
“Every citizen’s voice deserves to be heard, particularly that of young people, who represent the hope and future of our country. This is beyond question and should never be called into doubt,” he said.
However, Begaj stressed that violence cannot be a means of expressing discontent, as it harms society, undermines security and deepens divisions within a democratic society.
The Head of State urged all parties to act with restraint and ensure that tensions do not undermine the country’s constitutional order and stability.
“I call on everyone to act responsibly, refrain from violence and not allow tensions to threaten the country’s constitutional order and stability,” Begaj said.
He also expressed his support for law enforcement officers in carrying out their duties and wished a speedy recovery to all those injured, including police officers and protesters.
Concluding his message, the President said he remained open to facilitating dialogue and mutual understanding, calling on all parties involved to work together in the interests of young people and the country.
“With the responsibilities and powers vested in me by the Constitution, I remain open to anyone seeking an opportunity for dialogue and mutual understanding. I also urge all parties involved to commit themselves to dialogue and cooperation for the benefit of young people and Albania,” Begaj concluded.
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