Albanian Opposition Takes To Streets, Demands Government Resign

Several thousand people have demonstrated in Albania's capital, Tirana, to demand the resignation of the government of Prime Minister Edi Rama.

Dozens of protesters threw eggs, paint, and flares at the government's headquarters on December 8.

No injuries or arrests were reported.

The opposition accuses the Socialist government of corruption and says its economic reforms have increased poverty in Albania, one of Europe's poorest countries.

The government has angered many Albanians by cracking down on nonpayment of household electricity bills, increasing social security contributions, and hiking income tax.

The December 8 rally took place on the 25th anniversary of a student protest that obliged the former communist regime to end the one-party state and allow free elections.

Based on reporting by AFP and AP