The protesters initially gathered in Skanderbeg Square before marching towards the Prime Minister’s Office, where they chanted slogans against the government.

Activist Sidorela Vatnikaj described the territorial reform as an unjust decision, arguing that it would reorganise 15 municipalities. She accused the parliamentary majority of acting on Prime Minister Edi Rama’s orders and said the protesters would not back down in the face of pressure.

“This parliament no longer represents our interests or our concerns, but acts on Edi Rama’s orders,” Vatnikaj said, calling for the resignation of the prime minister and his cabinet.

Professor Lush Susaj also opposed the territorial reform, arguing that the changes risk exacerbating poverty and depopulation. He stressed that issues concerning municipalities and local government should not be treated as political matters, but as concerns that directly affect citizens.

Professor Lush Susaj opposed the territorial reform, warning that it could worsen poverty and depopulation. He also criticised education workers for remaining silent and vowed that the protest would continue until the government steps down.

The protest began on 31 May in opposition to the planned investment in Zvërnec. Over the following months, the protesters broadened their demands to include opposition to legal changes concerning protected areas and the “Mountain Package”.

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