TIRANA, Oct 24 /ATA/ – Prime Minister Edi Rama said on Saturday that the government would outline its response to citizens’ concerns behind the ongoing protests within hours or days, while warning that those who promote or engage in violence would face criminal and financial consequences.
Speaking to reporters alongside Interior Minister Ervin Demo, Rama said the grievances prompting part of society to support the protests remained a priority for the government, expressing readiness to engage in dialogue with demonstrators to hear their proposals for addressing the issues.
“The demands, the reasons and, above all, the needs of that part of society calling for a stronger government response to the rising cost of living and concerns about merit-based promotion of human resources remain my and the government’s absolute focus,” Rama said.
He added that dialogue with protesters willing to articulate their concerns and propose solutions would be welcome. The government would soon present its overall response to what he described as a significant section of society seeking to make the authorities more attentive to their needs.
Rama warned that those who glorify, promote or carry out violence would face a sustained response from the state.
“Those who glorify violence, amplify it or engage in it must understand that just as the urban terror inflicted on Albania’s population, businesses and ordinary families was intense and prolonged, so too will the state’s response be sustained and persistent,” he said.
Rama also accused some individuals of exploiting public sympathy for students to incite violence and deepen religious divisions, invoking the Antifa movement in his remarks.
“Anyone who thinks they can bring the state to its knees is making a grave miscalculation,” he said, adding that those directly involved in violence would face criminal penalties, while those who glorify and promote it could face financial sanctions.
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