Opposition leader Sali Berisha has accused Prime Minister Edi Rama of misleading the public and increasing the fiscal burden on citizens.
Speaking during a public address outside the Prime Minister’s Office, Berisha claimed that the government is manipulating data related to fuel prices and excise tax reductions. He argued that Albania has one of the highest tax burdens on fuel in Europe and globally.
Berisha also criticized the fuel pricing mechanism set by the national hydrocarbons board, stating that diesel prices have reached up to 220 lek per liter. He dismissed government claims of potential excise tax cuts as ineffective, arguing that increases in value-added tax (VAT) outweigh any reductions, leaving citizens without real financial relief.
The opposition leader further accused the government of corruption and alleged that media outlets are being used to cover up scandals and support the ruling administration.
In his remarks, Berisha also raised concerns about families affected by recent flooding in Durrës, questioning whether they had received compensation, and criticized local institutions for what he described as irresponsible salary increases.
He additionally highlighted the high cost of education, claiming that Albanian students face some of the highest tuition fees in Europe relative to income levels. Berisha also accused the prime minister of making false statements regarding visa liberalization, calling it “deceptive.”
