US: Albanian protests are “antidemocratic”

The US Embassy in Albania notes violent actions by the opposition, which on the eve held another anti-government demonstration in the capital Tirana.

“Peaceful assemblies and criticism of the government are part of healthy democratic processes, but these rights must be exercised peacefully. Using pyrotechnics, especially against the police, is unacceptable and anti-democratic actions. We urge the organizers of the protest action to stop the violent actions and start a constructive dialogue,” says in the message.

Recall, on the eve of the mass demonstrations in Tirana, 13 people were injured, among whom 10 were police officers, and three were participants in the action.

In Tirana, mass anti-government protests have been taking place for about six months, often with the use of violence and incendiary mixtures. The opposition accuses the authorities of links with organized crime.