• Protests in Tirana demand the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama over corruption allegations.
• Clashes resulted in numerous injuries and at least 13 arrests during violent demonstrations.
• Opposition parties vow to continue their protests amidst rising political tensions.

Violent anti-government protests erupted in Albania's capital, Tirana, on Tuesday as thousands called for Prime Minister Edi Rama to resign amid allegations of corruption. Demonstrators threw Molotov cocktails and fireworks at the Prime Ministry building, prompting police to respond with tear gas and water cannons. The unrest follows allegations against Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku, who is accused of corrupt practices related to public tenders, a charge she denies, according to Reuters.

At least 16 individuals sustained injuries during the chaos, with reports indicating that at least 13 people were arrested by security forces. Police were deployed in significant numbers, with more than 1,300 officers present to maintain order, as protests led by opposition parties continue to grow in intensity, according to Al Jazeera and AA.

The protests have been fueled by long-standing discontent with the government's handling of corruption, particularly following Balluku's controversial suspension and reinstatement as Minister of Infrastructure and Energy. Political analysts suggest that disillusionment among citizens reflects a broader cycle of corruption within Albania's political landscape, as voiced by political commentator Mentor Kikia, who noted the public's skepticism towards both the ruling and opposition parties, according to Al Jazeera.