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Protests Erupt in Tirana Over Corruption Allegations Against Officials

2/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

Protests erupted in Tirana demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama amid corruption allegations against Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku.
Balluku is charged over two construction contracts worth over 200 million euros, which she denies.
The Special Prosecution Office (SPAK) has indicted Balluku and seeks to lift her immunity.
Rama opposes the move.
The European Union (EU) warns that public distrust in the judiciary hampers Albania's EU membership progress.

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Story summary

Protests erupted in Tirana demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama amid corruption allegations against Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku.
Balluku is charged over two construction contracts worth over 200 million euros, which she denies.
The Special Prosecution Office (SPAK) has indicted Balluku and seeks to lift her immunity.
Rama opposes the move.
The European Union (EU) warns that public distrust in the judiciary hampers Albania's EU membership progress.