The Speaker of the Assembly of Kosovo, Albulena Haxhiu, has reacted to the protests in Tirana, calling on Albanian institutions to address the protesters’ demands seriously and to avoid arrogant attitudes. “Albania is home to us,” she said, arguing that state institutions must listen to the voice of citizens and respond to their demands.
Haxhiu addressed in particular the Assembly, the government and the Presidency in Albania, stressing that they have a responsibility to examine the students’ demands, whether these concern concerns that have recently emerged or problems that have accumulated over the years. “It is very important that the protesters’ demands are heard by the institutions,” she stated.
Commenting on the clashes during the protests, the Speaker of the Assembly of Kosovo spoke out against the use of violence, calling for it to end on both sides. She also warned that an arrogant approach by the institutions could further escalate the situation. “I think arrogance only fuels protests,” said Haxhiu, calling for maturity, seriousness and the overcoming of differences through dialogue. She denies VV’s involvement in organizing the protests
Haxhiu also spoke about reports of the participation of Vetëvendosje Movement supporters in the protests in Tirana, denying that the party called for their involvement in the demonstrations. “I want to emphasize that there has never been a call from VV to support the protests,” she stated. According to Haxhiu, Vetëvendosje has broad civic support and cannot be held responsible for the individual decisions of its supporters to take part in protests.