Democratic Party MP Jorida Tabaku has condemned the violence used against protesters during the rally in front of the Ministry of Education, describing as disturbing the way citizens present at the protest are being treated. Tabaku praised the participation of teachers in the protest, considering it an important message in the face of the situation that has been created. She stressed that their response must be followed by a broader commitment from society.
”The unity of teachers, of every voice, of intellectuals and of parents to protect children should have been the first thing that needed to happen”, Tabaku said, adding that at the protest she was present both as a teacher and as an MP. During her statement, Tabaku raised concern about detentions at police stations and claims about the presence of extremist persons at the protest. According to her, the majority of those detained are students and citizens, while she questioned claims about the involvement of other persons. ”In 90% of cases of those detained there were no extremists, but students. There were no foreign hands either. If there are, where are they?”, the MP declared.
She also criticized the treatment of protesters, speaking of cases that, in her view, constitute violations of human dignity. Part of her speech was also directed at the State Police, making a distinction between officers who, in her view, carry out their duties with integrity and those who act arrogantly while carrying out orders.
”I want to make a big distinction between that honest contingent in the State Police, which today has been left to the mercy of fate. They have been 24 hours without eating and they have families. But there is another contingent, which behaves savagely and carries out orders”, Tabaku said.
In conclusion, she warned that the use of violence and escalation of the situation could undermine social peace, creating tensions also between the police and businesses. Tabaku said she hopes the situation will reach a normal resolution without further clashes. ”Let’s protect our children”, was her call addressed to teachers, parents and society.