Tirana protesters defy new measures, demand Rama's resignation

Protesters in Tirana defied new government measures on Sunday, gathering hours after Prime Minister Edi Rama announced steps to curb unrest, and set fire to chairs outside his office. The demonstrations, demanding Rama's resignation, have spread to other cities this month. The student-led protests are fueled by anger over government corruption, unemployment, and poor education standards. Demonstrators have set fire to government buildings and banks, and thrown paving stones at police. Rama defended his position, saying violence cannot force his resignation, but acknowledged some demands may be valid. The unrest follows months of summer protests against a coastal development backed by Jared Kushner, posing the biggest challenge to Rama's rule since 2013. New measures include fines of 500,000 lek for anyone participating in a protest that turns violent.