Key facts
- Opposition lawmakers disrupted a parliamentary session by setting off flares.
- Lawmakers blocked access to the podium during a vote on a Central Bank law.
- Fines of 500,000 lek ($6,200) have been introduced for participating in violent protests.
- New economic measures include cheaper fuel and more money for poor families.
Opposition lawmakers in Albania disrupted a parliamentary session on Thursday by letting off flares and blocking access to the podium during a vote on a Central Bank law. The disruption followed weeks of violent anti-government protests called by students demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama. Demonstrators are angry over perceived government corruption, a lack of jobs, and poor education standards. Prime Minister Rama has introduced new measures to curb violence, including fines, and has called for dialogue with students.